Steven Zuber’s arrival at FC Zurich marks a significant transition in his career, despite his past with rival club Grasshoppers. Although fans initially reacted with skepticism, Zuber emphasizes personal growth and a strong bond with sports director Milos Malenovic. With FCZ facing recent struggles, Zuber’s experience is seen as crucial for revitalizing the team and achieving ambitious goals, including qualifying for European competitions, while shedding doubts about his previous affiliations.
Steven Zuber Begins His Journey with FC Zurich
No protests or banners, just a calm atmosphere. When Steven Zuber and FC Zurich’s sports director Milos Malenovic arrived in a black limousine with Zug license plates at the Home of FC Zurich on Friday, it marked the start of Zuber’s new chapter, despite his history with city rivals Grasshoppers.
“Ciao Toni,” Zuber greeted FCZ veteran Antonio Marchesano, exuding familiarity as though they were lifelong friends. Shortly thereafter, Zuber faced the media in his inaugural press conference, donning FCZ colors.
Fan Reactions and Zuber’s Reflections
When FCZ announced the acquisition of the 33-year-old national player just before Christmas, fans expressed their dissatisfaction. Banners in the stands conveyed their concerns about the club’s direction and raised questions about Zuber’s signing.
“A GC boy in FCZ? Absolutely not,” was a sentiment echoed by many.
Zuber and Malenovic share a strong bond, which Zuber acknowledges. “I anticipated this question,” he said, reflecting on his upbringing in the sport. His journey began at GC, where he spent eleven years before evolving into a national player and moving to CSKA Moscow. During his time at GC, Zuber accumulated 146 games, 33 goals, and even a cup victory alongside teammates like Amir Abrashi and Michael Lang. “That’s behind me now; I’ve grown and transformed into a different person,” Zuber stated.
Despite past affiliations, Zuber’s relationship with Malenovic remains intact. Malenovic played a crucial role in Zuber’s transfer to Moscow and later guided him in the Bundesliga. Now, Zuber’s transition from AEK Athens to FCZ signifies not just a club change but a return to a trusted mentor. Malenovic believes Zuber’s decision reflects his character and ambition, hinting at the financial sacrifices made for this move.
While Zuber has ambitious plans, he refrains from making title promises. “The incredible project that Milos and the Canepas presented captivated me instantly – I’m an emotional person,” he shared. Shortly after signing, Zuber felt compelled to delete an Instagram post declaring, “once a Hopper, always a Hopper.”
FCZ President Ancillo Canepa emphasized a modern perspective, stating, “We no longer live in the penultimate century; a good player is a good player, regardless of their past with GC, Basel, or YB.”
As FCZ faces ongoing challenges, Zuber’s experience could prove invaluable. The team recently earned only three points from their last six matches, exhibiting a lack of joy and vitality. “We need character, quality, and experience on and off the pitch right now,” Malenovic remarked.
Reflecting on last year’s situation, where FCZ coach Bo Henriksen sought reinforcements but was met with disappointment, the current landscape signals a change. After a year of rebuilding, FCZ now aims to avoid past mistakes with the addition of Zuber. Coach Ricardo Moniz has reiterated his ambition for titles, aligning with Canepa’s goal of reaching the group stage in a European competition.
“I value coaches with high ambitions,” Canepa stated. “Our aim is to qualify for the group stage; achieving this as champions would be a bonus.” The financial implications of missing revenue from the group stage weigh heavily on FCZ, highlighting the urgency of their goals.
With Zuber’s transfer, FCZ aims to emulate the success of its rivals. Players like Renato Steffen at Lugano and Xherdan Shaqiri’s impactful return to FC Basel demonstrate that experienced players can significantly influence a team. FCZ’s own success with Blerim Dzemaili, who became an icon after signing, sets a high bar for Zuber to aspire to.