Fan-favorite, temperamental, often in the center of attention but also a proven expert when it comes to handball which is for him far more than only a game. That is probably the best way to describe our 7M interview guest, one and only Veselin Vujovic.

If there is a coach who knows what is best for Vardar 1961 it is definitely Veselin Vujovic. His arrival sparked the rise of the ‘Red&Black’ leading them all the way to the trophy in the premier season of SEHA - Gazprom League.

Taking only a quick look back to analyze his entire coaching career in which he was leading clubs like Zagreb, Koper, Vardar and Borac as well as several national teams tells us we’re definitely talking about a coach who knows what he is doing and who appears to be the right solution for Vardar in times when club strives to get back on tracks.

This will be the third time for you on Vardar’s bench. How different is the situation now comparing it to the one when you were in 2013 leaving as a national champion?

A lot has changed, not only Vardar. The city of Skopje, country in general, circumstances, everything. It all looks beautiful, better but feeling is somehow not the same. There were way more emotions involved eight years ago. Our little sports hall 'Kale' looked like 'Bercy' in Paris. Don't get me wrong, 'Jane Sandaski' is certainly one of the most beautiful sports halls in Europe, we have excellent conditions both for trainings and matches. The lineup is better now as well. My goal is to find a way to bring that old spirit back both to our players and fans.

You've managed to win almost everything as a coach with Vardar - national both Championship and Cup as well as SEHA Gazprom league. The only thing that remains is the EHF Champions league. How motivated are you coming back to Skopje?

Money doesn't really matter for me, when I'm choosing a club what I'm looking for are emotions, the adrenaline. I miss the feeling of playing against PSG, Kiel, Barcelona... I hope the situation with Covid-19 will finally resolve and that we'll once again have full stands because fans are the ones we're playing for. Looking back to the last few seasons and all the players that went through Vardar I can't help but feel a little sorry and sad knowing that my job here will actually be to start something new, ignite that spark once again.

You always say your relationship with Skopje is something unusual. You even cried when you arrived here as a coach of PPD Zagreb with fans chanting your name. Did that affection spark the idea of return?

That obviously played a really big part. I was close to hugging people at the customs at the border and the situation is the same when I'm, for example, paying the toll on the highway. I always have conversations with people I meet, it is amazing. All of that played a big part in me making such decision. The other big part of the decision was of course president Mihajlo Mihajlovski.

Fans are dreaming of Vardar reliving those winning days, climbing the European throne once again. Can they expect something like that to happen? Do you think you have the chemistry to succeed?

Both the fans and I have the same desire. We are no different. Only thing that counts are victories if you ask me. This season there will be ups and downs, teams we'll manage to defeat and teams we'll lose from. We'll have a serious rival in the domestic championship as well. In case we manage to keep the roster as it is only strengthening it with a few players next season we might end up having a team which can compete against anyone. At the moment we need a quality left back who can play in both ways and a middle back to strengthen up the rotation. This year what we'll have are mostly desires, not really objectives but next season might be quite different.

When someone mentions Veselin Vujovic, the first thing most think of is temperament which can sometimes surprise in the most unusual way. Do you feel like you've managed to put it under control a little, become wiser?

Of course, I will never be silent witnessing injustice. However, out there on the court, there are not many things you can do really, and there are a lot of consequences. That's what I figured out in the last few years.

In the last 14 days you managed to win the first place once (Struga tournament) but also lost in the final match twice (Super Cup and Hummel Cup). Is the goal to build up form for upcoming SEHA - Gazprom League Quarter-Final?

My goal was to give younger players a chance to develop because they clearly need time and opportunity to show what they're capable of and gain experience. If I'm not giving them an opportunity in those friendly matches, how can I expect them to deliver in important ones. I have to let them play in order to be able to determine what is it I'll have to focus on when working with them. Another thing is, I also want those who feel like their place within the team is guaranteed to understand that nothing is guaranteed and that everything can change. 

During your last stay in Skopje you've managed to bring in several unknown players finding a perfect environment for them to develop and become who they are today. Surely you are happy for guys like Igor Karacic or Ilija Abutovic. Are there any players currently on the team who you feel might reach such heights, in case they keep up the good, hard work?

I have to highlight Jeremy Toto. He's already shown he is a great player and was the MVP in Magdeburg. He might end up getting called for the French national team. Jan Czuwara is a very interesting player as well as Martin Tomovski. Patryk Walczak is good, Bakaria has incredible discipline and is a real fighter. We are still waiting for Gurbindo to catch the right form and really become a part of the team. Ante Kuduz is an excellent back shooter.

Duel against PPD Zagreb is ahead of you. What are the emotions before the clash?

I contact with them often; we have a really good relationship. They are coming in full shape, highly motivated, sure they will get through and qualify for Final 4. Nexe are obviously facing a big challenge in order to qualify, and Final 4 in Zadar without a Croatian team is not something they are hoping for.

Vardar's goal is to qualify for Zadar as well. Are you thinking about the final or even going all the way?

I've watched Veszprem versus Nexe and Meshkov against Eurofarm Pelister. I think it will be hard to defeat Zagreb but I believe we can win in the end.

Nine Final 4 tournaments are behind us and Vardar have managed to go all the way five times. Who do you think has the biggest chance to reach the trophy this season?

Meshkov really left a good impression on me. They are not that fast but they are playing very well. Last year they were also impressive in the Champions League. Veszprem is not as good as last season after some departures but we can't write them off because they have a really great roster. Of course, if we get through, we will surely win the title.