The traditional fan evening has become as much a staple of VfL Wolfsburg's winter training camps as the intense training sessions. After the friendly against Vitesse Arnhem on Sunday, the Wolves invited the fans who have made the trip to Almancil to spend an evening in the team hotel. The 62 VfL supporters ate and chatted in a relaxed atmosphere with the players and coaching staff, underlining the close relationship between club and fans.
Birthday wishes for Roussillon
Just prior to the introductions from Holger Ballwanz and Michael Schrader, the focus was on Jérôme Roussillon, who was serenaded in celebration of his 26th birthday.
VfL managing director Jörg Schmadtke then opened the buffet after thanking the fans. "We're very pleased that so many fans have come to Portugal with us," he said. "That's not to be taken for granted and so we wanted to thank you for your support with this shared evening in a relaxed atmosphere."
"It's unique"
The fan evening is not just a highlight for the visiting supporters, either. VfL defender Felix Uduokhai for one thoroughly enjoyed chatting to the fans. "There's just a really relaxed atmosphere," he commented. "I think these sorts of evenings are really important. It gives you the chance to chat more with your own fans. That's great for us but also of course for the fans, who get a bit closer to the players and can ask the questions they want."
Marko Werro, a VfL fan from Switzerland, was delighted that he chose to accompany the Wolves to Almancil and was able to take part in the fan evening: "You get so close to the team. It's unique. Every fan should experience it."
