Andreas Athanasiou: “I want to prove that I can succeed at this level”

Andreas Athanasiou is one of Apollon’s new additions ahead of the 2026-2027 season. The young winger spoke to apollon.com.cy about his move to our club, his journey from the academies of APOEL and PAOK to his return to Cyprus, his playing characteristics and the goals he hopes to achieve in blue and white.

Welcome to Apollon. What does this move mean for your career?

Thank you very much for the welcome. It is a very important step for me. Apollon is a big club and my goal is to give everything I have in order to help the team achieve its objectives.

I feel that I have taken the next step in my career and I want to prove that I can succeed at this level. I felt great satisfaction when the first approach was made because it means a lot to know that a club like Apollon wants you. From the moment I learned about the club’s interest, it was the only thing on my mind and I couldn’t wait for this day to come.

Tell us a few things about your journey so far.

I started playing football at the age of six in APOEL’s academy in Paphos. At the age of 12, I moved to Nicosia to join APOEL’s main academy.

During that period, there were also the first contacts with PAOK and I spent a short time in Thessaloniki before returning to Cyprus. At the age of 17, I joined PAOK once again, where I remained for two years.

After completing my spell in Greece, I returned to Cyprus and spent the last two seasons with Akritas Chlorakas.

How was your experience at PAOK?

It was a very important experience for me. Everything was run in a highly professional manner and the conditions were excellent. There were accommodation facilities, a gym, physiotherapists, nutritionists and generally everything a young footballer needs in order to develop.

When my contract came to an end, I was offered the chance to stay, but I did not want to continue with the Under-19 team, so I decided to return to Cyprus and take the next step in my career.

Last season with Akritas had its ups and downs. What happened?

It is true that I started very well, but during the season the team changed three coaches and several new signings arrived in January. All these factors affected the team’s overall course and, consequently, my own performances.

How would you describe yourself as a player?

I mainly play as a left winger. I believe my strongest attributes are my pace, my dribbling ability and my one-on-one skills.

I like cutting inside and becoming a threat around the opposition’s penalty area.

What message would you like to send to the Apollon supporters?

I can’t wait to play at the Alphamega Stadium in front of our fans. I want them to know that every time I step onto the pitch, I will give everything for the team.

I hope we achieve the goals set by the club and make the Apollon supporters proud and happy.

The player has chosen to wear the number 18 shirt.

Press Office
Apollon FC