Mario Vuskovic returned to the Hamburg training pitch on Tuesday, taking part with HSV again for the first time since his doping suspension began in November 2022. The 24-year-old Croatian centre-back can train with the squad, but remains ineligible for matches until November.
Mario Vuskovic returns to HSV training at Volksparkstadion
HSV moved their first session of the week into the Volksparkstadion after anticipating a large crowd. Around 7,000 supporters attended, welcoming Vuskovic at 15:17 with applause, chants and a Croatian-language banner: “The road was long, the goal is close. Welcome back, Mario Vuskovic.”
Former HSV coach Tim Walter travelled from Kiel for the session. Ex-team-mates Sebastian Schonlau and Jonas Meffert were also among the spectators.
Quick facts
- Vuskovic has been suspended since November 2022 and continues to maintain his innocence.
- He may train with HSV immediately but cannot play before 22 November.
- His earliest possible match is the northern derby away to Werder Bremen.
- About 7,000 fans watched his first public training session back.
- He prepared during the suspension with Croatian decathlon champion Josko Vlasic.
Board member Eric Huwer described an emotional afternoon, with Vuskovic greeted by team-mates and his parents, Sanja and Daniel. Huwer also referred to meeting his brother Luka during the past year.
Miro Muheim called Vuskovic’s return to the dressing room a special occasion. Muheim and goalkeeper Daniel Heuer Fernandes are the only current HSV players who were in the squad for Vuskovic’s last appearance, the 1-0 defeat at Greuther Fürth in November 2022.
Muheim said the group had always believed in Vuskovic’s innocence and praised his character. He expects the defender’s presence to help the squad even before he becomes eligible, pointing to the resilience required to work towards a return over four years.
There are strict limits on Vuskovic’s public activity until the ban expires. He cannot give interviews, appear in marketing work, or meet autograph and selfie requests, with HSV seeking to comply fully with WADA and NADA rules.
On the pitch, Vuskovic appeared in strong physical condition after his long absence. He looked lean in the small-sided games and drew a reaction from the crowd with several powerful finishes.
Questions remain over how quickly he can regain match timing and positional instincts. Muheim believes he will manage it, while Huwer said the player’s determination and family support give HSV confidence in his comeback.
SEO title: Mario Vuskovic trains with HSV again ahead of November return
SEO description: Suspended HSV defender Mario Vuskovic has resumed team training at Volksparkstadion, with a possible competitive return set for the November derby at Werder Bremen.
