The Italian national team will face Bulgaria in the second week of the Volleyball Nations League in Ljubljana with a changed squad. Head coach Ferdinando De Giorgi is facing personnel challenges related to the physical condition of some key players, which will affect the appearance of the "Azzurri" squad.
The most significant absence for the Italians will be that of captain Giannelli. The setter will not be part of the first phase of the VNL, as the decision is related to his workload over recent seasons. The Italian staff is adamant that he will not be called up for the initial weeks of the tournament, and his potential inclusion could only be discussed if they qualify for the final eight. In practice, this means that Giannelli will not be available for the matches in Ljubljana, including the one against Bulgaria.
However, De Giorgi's problems do not end there. One of the team's main outside hitters, Michieletto, will also not participate in the three weeks of the VNL. He is recovering from an unpleasant injury and has already gone through an extended period of rest, with his condition remaining under observation.
The situation with Lavia is more delicate. The player has largely recovered after operations on his right hand, but after returning to the court, he also had an additional physical problem. His upcoming club matches for fifth place will provide a clearer picture of his condition.
In this situation, De Giorgi will use the tournament to give a chance to younger players. The Italian coach has already emphasized that some of them will get an opportunity to play in the VNL, with the idea of building a broader base for the future.
Among the options being discussed are Sbertoli and one of Porro or Boninfante for the setter position. In reception, they are expected to rely on Bottolo, Sani, Porro, Gardini, and Orioli, with the possibility of including Bistrot. In the opposite hitter zone, the options remain Romano, Bovolenta, and Barotto, and in the middle blocker position, Mati could get a chance, as well as Crosato, Comparoni, and Caneschi.
All of this puts Bulgaria in an interesting position before the match in Ljubljana. The absence of Giannelli and Michieletto inevitably affects Italy's game organization and stability. At the same time, however, the rejuvenated squad also carries some unpredictability, as the young players will be looking for a maximum strong performance.
Thus, the match between Bulgaria and Italy acquires an additional nuance – a clash against an opponent who is in a transitional phase, but retains their potential to be competitive at the highest level.