VNL set for Manila leg with Japan and USA headlining

Japan during a game against Poland in the Volleyball Nations League in Manila. MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines—The Volleyball Nations League is returning to Manila.

After a successful stint in the country’s capital earlier this year, the VNL will have another leg of men’s volleyball action next year.

For five days, beginning on June 18, eight teams will see action in a venue yet to be determined in Manila.

Japan, Brazil, Netherlands and Canada, which played in the Manila leg earlier this year are listed as countries that will compete next year.

Powerhouse USA, France, Iran and Germany, meanwhile, complete the eight representing squads that will compete in the nation’s capital.

Defending champion Poland, which competed at Mall of Asia Arena last season, will not be in Manila for said week but rather will be in Slovenia for the Ljubljana leg.

Ticket prices have yet to be released by the VNL or the Philippine National Volleyball Federation, but president Tats Suzara had already envisioned the international competition’s return to the country earlier this month.

“For sure, we’ll have VNL next year but I do not know if it’s men’s or women’s but there were discussions regarding bringing the men’s back of the interest and enthusiasm (of the fans),” said Suzara in July this year at the tail-end of the 2023 VNL Manila leg.