Dusan Ilic, Serbia’s fitness coach, has offered new insight into Dusan Vlahović’s condition and hinted at what may come next for the Juventus striker. Sidelined since late November following a serious muscle injury that required surgery, the Serbian forward is expected to return to the pitch in early March — just in time for the final stretch of the season.
The Injury and Recovery Process
Ilic explained that Vlahović’s injury affected a sensitive area that naturally requires a longer recovery period. Nonetheless, the progress has been encouraging thanks to modern treatments and the player’s exceptional athleticism. “His body type is a gift — it helps him recover faster,” Ilic noted. “I believe at the start of March we’ll see him back doing what he does best: scoring and smashing nets.”
To support rehabilitation, Vlahović reportedly trained in warmer climates to speed up muscle healing — a factor that could help him regain full fitness sooner than expected.
A Productive Working Relationship
Ilic also reflected on his collaboration with the striker, which began in 2021 during the pandemic era when workouts often took place in isolation. Their sessions focused on strength, conditioning, and nutrition. “He’s one of the most complete athletes I’ve worked with,” Ilic said. “Not only physically elite, but also disciplined, humble, and focused on constant improvement.”
A Possible Future in Barcelona
While Juventus eagerly anticipates his return, Ilic suggested that Vlahović’s long-term future could lie elsewhere. “I can see him at Barcelona,” he revealed. Before joining Juventus, Vlahović had held talks with Atlético Madrid, but the Bianconeri’s offer proved irresistible at the time.
Still, Ilic believes that a move abroad could reignite his career. “To return to being the world-class player we saw at Fiorentina, he may need a new challenge,” he explained.
