Transfer Talk: Domestic Imports

By: Peter Katsiris | July 6th, 2008

Olympiacos was active in the transfer market before this summer transfer period officially opened. The Eruthroleuki signed three players already playing in the Greek Super League. The transfers were in the most part an attempt to build a youthful team, as well as to add depth to an aging squad that could be prone to long term injuries.

The first of the three signings was Giorgos Galitisios from AE Larissa. Both Olympiacos and Panathinaikos battled for the signature of the young Greek, but in the end the 22 year old signed with the Greek Champions. Galitsios has spent the last three seasons with Larissa, making eighty appearances and scoring twice. On the international level, Galitsios has not received a National Team call by head coach Otto Rehhagel; however, the midfielder has played a critical role in Greece’s U-21 team. His accumulated stats prove he is not a natural goalscorer, but instead a defensive ‘rock’ in the midfield. Despite the lack of international experience, his time with Olympiacos could act as a stepping stone to success with the National Team, and possibly abroad.

Giannis Papadopoulos was the next to be signed by Olympiacos; only after an extended bidding war between AEK FC for the 19 year old midfielder. Papadopoulos spent the last two seasons in Thessaloniki, with Iraklis FC; featuring 28 times and scoring one goal. With a price tag of 800 000 euros, Papadopoulos as a ’steal of talent’. His speed and excellent ball control, make him a danger to opposing defenses; adding flare to club looking to improve their scoring capabilities. His dynamic attributes have allowed him to prove himself as a success in Greece’s U-19 team.

The third signing was the acquisition of goalkeeper Pavel Kovac from Apollon Kalamaria. Kovac arrives at Olympiacos expecting to receive limited time with Antonios Nikopolidis still manning the Olympiacos goal. With Nikopolidis is in his last season before retirement, Kovac could see more time than previous Olympiacos backups. The Slovakian international started his career in Slovakia’s top flight before moving to Greece with Kalamaria. In three years with the Thessaloniki based side, Kovac made 89 appearances. Pressure to be flawless will fall on his shoulders when he makes his debut with the Greek Champions.