With the championship celebration behind them and just 15 days of rest before the crucial part of the year, the Buducnost players have reunited to kick off preparations for their European summer.

The “Blue and White” commenced training with just 15 players, but the upcoming draw for the Champions League qualifying round is already on their minds, as the Montenegrin champions will be seeded at the start.

“The draw is something we all think about subconsciously. Honestly, we were fortunate with the licensing and then with Milsami winning the title in Moldova. I don’t want to sound boastful, but we need a third stroke of luck,” said Ivan Brnović, the Buducnost coach, on the club’s website.

And they hope that the third time’s a charm when they face their rivals in the draw.

“Luck has to be earned, and I believe we have earned it through our work ethic. We approached our title defense seriously and respected everyone, so I hope this attitude pays off with some luck in the draw,” Brnović added.

Currently, the champions are in the process of building their squad, albeit for a good reason.

“We take pride in having 11 national players across various levels, from senior teams to U-19 and U-17 squads,” emphasized Brnović.

The preparation plan for their first European challenge has been laid out.

“Next week, we’ll train twice daily, followed by a friendly match with Adria on Saturday. From June 16th, we will embark on two weeks of training in Slovenia, and we will finalize our preparations in Podgorica,” Brnović explained.

The club announced that the “Blue and White” will be heading to Moravske Toplice in Slovenia, where they will participate in four friendly matches against Vardar (June 17th), Rapid Bucharest (June 21st), Mura (June 25th), and Slaven Belupo (June 29th).

There was also a familiar face at the roll call.

“Milan Vušurović is a recognized name in our community; he enjoyed a successful career abroad and has been part of the national team. We had been in touch last winter, but Mornar would not permit his transfer, and now our interests have coincided. Vušurović is the type of player we need, given his physical and tactical attributes, and I believe he will add quality,” said the Buducnost coach.

Brnović hinted at further reinforcements.

“Next, we could be welcoming Argentine Lionel Strumija, who plays as a defensive midfielder. He is expected in Podgorica within the next two days, and assuming he passes the mandatory examinations, he will sign a contract. We are also looking to acquire another defender and a midfielder,” Brnović concluded.

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