Ivan Zaytsev Is Injured

The good news: Parodi is back. The bad news: Ivan Zaytsev is injured.

The Italian outside hitter injured his right ankle the other night after a friendly match against Czech Republic. First of all, we hope it’s nothing serious. We hope he recovers soon. Secondly, what’s up with Italian players getting injured before a major major tournament? Parodi injured his knee a few months ago and missed the 2011 World League and now it’s Zaytsev’s turn with the European Champs just a few weeks away.

What’s up with that?

Zaytsev was among Italy’s key players at the 2011 World League. Italy qualified for the Final Round but failed to win a spot in the Semifinal Round.

As for the upcoming European Championship which Italy last won in 2005, Coach Berruto is on a mission to win the bronze crown. With the return of veteran Luigi Mastrangelo and the talented Parodi, we hope Italy can bring back its glorious days in this tournament.

It’s been a long time since they won a prestigious medal.

Thoughts on Italy?