May 13th, 2013

We knew it!

After 4 years, Sokolova will return to Russia next season and will play for Dinamo Krasnodar. Lyuba last played in the Russian League from 2007-2009 with Zarechie Odintsovo. Her transfer also confirms the exit of Helena Havelkova from Czech Republic and also known as Facundo Conte’s girlfriend. Helena has reportedly received offers to play in Poland and Turkey. Rumor has it that she is looking for a Polish team knowing that her boyfriend will play with Skra Belchatow.

Sokolova said:

“Krasnodar has always been a very interesting team to me that’s why I have decided to go back to Russia. Personally, playing for a new team is going to be a nice experience. After all the travelling I’ve done in Europe with my previous club teams, I finally wanted to play at home. I am very happy with the decision and I will do everything to take my new team as one of the best teams in the league.”

At least, she sounds motivated more than ever before. She somewhat lost her touch when she played in Turkey this past season.

Krasnodar’s manager is also very excited to welcome one of the world’s most complete and well known players.

Andrey Makarov said:

“The negotiation with Sokolova took a long time. She is a great player and a great competitor who could help Krasnodar attain succes.”

Although it’s not confirmed yet, Cuban spiker Rosir Calderon joins Krasnodar to replace the pregnant Hooker.

We will for sure keep an eye on Krasnodar!

Any thoughts?

May 9th, 2013

We’re not surprised.

After a disappointing 2012/2013 season, Russian hitter Lioubov Sokolova and Turkish club team Eczacıbaşı VitrA have mutually parted ways.

Rumor has it that the club team was not satisfied with Sokolova’s performance throughout the entire season despite being the highest paid player on the team and in the Turkish League. Eczacıbaşı VitrA failed to defend their Turkish League crown which was won by Vakifbank and also failed to advance to the Final 4 of the Champions League.

“Sokolova performed way below the expectations of the team. She was to be the force yet her performance was not solid at all which affected her team’s limited success in the Turkish League and the Champions League.” says a source.

As for her future, the source adds that Sokolova might play in Brazil.

“I can confirm that Coach Guimaraes came to Turkey to meet with Lyuba almost a month ago. The coach invited her to play for Brazilian club team, Amil Campinas, but she’s not sure about the offer. She wants to stay in Europe, Turkey or Russia, so she could be close to her family and friends. Her son is a teenager now and moving to another country would require time to adjust. Amil hired an American outside hitter instead.” ends the source.

American outside hitter? Could it be Kristin Richards?

Back to Sokolova…

Finding a new team is not going to be a problem for her. She is one of the world’s most popular players. We just hope if she gets paid more than a million dollar then she better meet and even exceed the expectations of the team.

For now, the 35 year old is taking a break without plans on playing for Russia this year.