At the age of 20, following experiences in Lovcen, Ulcinj, and the Budva Riviera, Miloš Vujović joined the Hungarian second division club Pécs with a clear aspiration: to reach the Bundesliga. For players from this region, the journey is often daunting, as European clubs typically prioritize foreign positions for defenders, goalkeepers, and pivots, leaving few spots for wingers.

Yet, the energetic native of Cetinje remained optimistic. During his time in Pécs, he achieved an impressive average of 9.6 goals per match, catching the attention of Tatabanja, where he left an enduring legacy over five years and was the top scorer in the Hungarian championship for the 2018/2019 season. In the summer of 2020, he moved to Berlin, where he played for Fuhse for three years, celebrating victory in the EHF European League last May. This season, he has joined Gumerzbach, where he is guided by one of the sport’s greatest wingers, Guđjon Valur Sigurdson.

Miloš was named to the ideal lineup of the European Championship and recognized as one of the athletes of the year by the Montenegrin Olympic Committee. In a New Year’s interview with “Vijesti,” he discussed the upcoming European Championship, his experiences at Fuhse, and his collaboration with the renowned Icelander…

Montenegro ranked 11th in Europe two years ago, and now they aim to advance from a challenging group C in Munich, facing Hungary, Iceland, and Serbia from January 12 to 16. The “Lions” ended up in the last hat after a surprising defeat against Bosnia and Herzegovina in the qualifiers at “Morača,” which meant they entered the championship as one of the best third-placed teams.

– We concluded the qualification for the European Championship well, and I believe we are in a solid, balanced group. However, we can’t promise a repeat of the spectacle we created in the last championship. We open against a formidable team like Hungary, which heavily invests in handball. This first game is crucial for us to set a positive tone. Our success will hinge on our preparation and how we approach the championship’s commencement – Vujović emphasized.

You know the Hungarians well, having spent six years in their league. What could be Montenegro’s advantage against them?

– I’m familiar with all their national team players, having played with or against them. This insight leads me to believe that if we adhere to our coach’s tactical plans, we can present a competitive match. If we can stay even through the latter stages and withstand their initial pressure, victory is within reach. They are known to falter in key moments, lacking strong character, whereas we possess that resilience to navigate tight finishes optimally.

Another opponent in Munich is Iceland, whom you faced in a 34:24 loss at the last EHF Euro. Should Montenegro look for an opportunity against Hungary towards the end of the group, particularly in a derby against Serbia?

– Traditionally, Iceland poses a challenge for us. Their national team is exceptional, with key players competing at the highest levels in the Bundesliga and achieving success. Frankly, our chances are slim against them. We need to focus on Hungary and Serbia. The match against Serbia will be intense, fueled by motivation and desire to win. Four years ago, we claimed victory, and while we’d love to do so again, Serbia has significantly improved under their new coach. Additionally, they will likely be more driven after their defeat in Graz.

Do you believe one of Montenegro’s strengths lies in the team’s long-standing unity, which should put them at their peak form age-wise?

– A substantial part of the team has been together for quite some time, with many younger players also making their mark. However, following the last World Cup, I’ll acknowledge the team is experiencing a dip. While it’s natural to see fluctuations after a coaching change, these must be addressed promptly. An event like the European Championship does not accommodate mistakes. We need to be at our peak, prepared physically and tactically. I hope our preparations yield the best outcome and that we approach the European Championship with our utmost health.

Coach Vlado Šola didn’t have much time for tactical implementation before the double match with Slovenia in March or the contests with Kosovo and Bosnia and Herzegovina in April. There’s now more time to work due to the Bundesliga break arriving earlier this year. What does this mean for you?

– Following our initial defeat, I remarked that the coach entered during a challenging phase for the team. It was tough to rectify ongoing issues in a short timeframe. Now, however, we have a significantly better situation with ample preparation time, allowing us to fully prepare for a strong showing at the European Championship.

There’s still a chance to qualify for the Olympic Games, but you need to finish at least in the top 10 at the European Championships. Is that within reach?

– I always aim for the highest goals, and I hope others share this mindset. Despite not being at our peak recently, I believe everything will change at the European Championship. Every player desires to showcase their best for the country. It’s challenging to predict outcomes before the championship begins, as motivation and determination often surge. I trust this team will give their all and foster belief in our capabilities. What we achieve remains uncertain.

At the last European Championship, you were named the best left winger. How challenging is it to maintain that level?

– This recognition certainly adds some pressure, as it’s often easier to reach a milestone than to defend it. Expectations for high-level performance are significant, especially given the standards I’ve set. Montenegro anticipates a lot from me, and I’m aware of my role within the national team. I am committed to performing at my best – Vujović concluded.

I hope Vuko Borozan will prove to be a significant asset

After a six-and-a-half-year absence, Vuko Borozan is returning to the national team. Once regarded as one of the premier defenders globally, he has shown glimpses of his former prowess with Lovcen in the EHF European League. He departed Cetinje just before preparations began for the European Championship, making this tournament in Germany a potential launchpad for his return.

– There’s been extensive discussion about his comeback, particularly given his long absence from the national team. Players evolve significantly over the years. While he finds himself without a club currently, we recognize his past achievements. When he last played for the national team, he was an elite player. I hope that this extended hiatus has allowed him to mature and that he will truly be a significant asset. Moreover, Stevan Vujović and Božo Anđelić join the squad to bolster the team’s efforts, and it’s crucial for them to seize the opportunity presented by the coach’s call – Vujović remarked.

Winning the European League was a memorable achievement; Gumerzbach aims for a return to prominence

You secured the EHF European League with Fuhse, ranking as the eighth top scorer in the competition with 76 goals. You’ve since left Berlin for Gumerzbach, where Guðjon Valur Sigurðsson coaches. How would you assess this past year?

– I concluded my contract in Berlin on a high note with the European League victory, which is a significant highlight in my career. I enjoyed my time there and am grateful to have been part of such a renowned club. Yet, life moves forward, bringing new ambitions and dreams. Transitioning to Gumerzbach feels promising, given its rich tradition and history, with the appointment of a distinguished coach being the cherry on top.

What can you learn from Sigurdsson, and is it challenging to work with him?

– I can gain invaluable insights from him due to his impressive collection of medals and successes. To be honest, it is demanding to be his player, particularly as a left winger, because he is deeply attuned to our play during games and training. Meeting his expectations is no easy feat, as he strives for maximum effort in every practice and match. His drive is palpable; even after all these years, he remains hungry for success. I have much to learn from him, both in terms of handball skills and life perspectives.

Gumerzbach is a prestigious club, having won five European championships from 1967 to 1983, but it hasn’t been at that standard for some time. Are there ambitions to return to the pinnacle?

– We are not content with our current standing, as we sit at 7th in the Bundesliga. Our target is to break into the Top 5 to secure entry into the Europa League. Recently, we brought in a right back from Flensburg due to injuries among younger players, as we were once missing four starters. This acquisition reflects the club’s desire to regain elite status and reinforces our commitment to that goal.

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Miloš Vujović will participate in the European Championships and previously competed in the World Championships in Poland and Sweden in January 2023. He missed the EHF Euro 2020 due to injury.

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Montenegro has participated in eight major competitions, achieving its best result in January 2022 when they finished 11th at the European Championship.

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