Sergio Castel: “I know what Apollon means to Cyprus”

Spanish striker Sergio Castel is Apollon’s latest summer signing and declares himself fully ready to contribute to the team’s goals. Speaking to our official website, he opens up about his transfer, the injury he overcame, his return to the island, and what he aims to achieve in the blue and white shirt.

Sergio, welcome to Apollon. How do you feel after signing with the club?
I’m very happy and excited. I know what Apollon means in Cyprus. It’s one of the biggest clubs and I can’t wait to get started.

What made you return to Cyprus and accept Apollon’s offer?
When Apollon called, I didn’t need much time to think. I know this is a big club, and we are both in the same position – we want a strong season.

There was interest from Apollon in January as well. Why didn’t the deal go through back then?
It was complicated. I had to talk things through with Málaga because I wasn’t a free agent, and I was also carrying a calf injury. So we decided to wait until the summer.

Did you agree back then to revisit the conversation in the summer?
We said we might speak again, but there were no talks at the time. The conversation happened during the summer, and the deal was done in one or two days. It was easy for both sides.

What did you discuss with the coach and Makis Papaioannou?
Yes, I met the coach today. He explained what he expects from me and from the team. He’s very ambitious – something the club needs.
He expects me to score goals, but also to work hard on the pitch. It’s not just about goals, it’s about pressing and playing with high intensity. We didn’t talk too much yet, but there was good chemistry.
As for Mr. Papaioannou,  we spoke several times over the past few days and he was always supportive and helpful with whatever I needed.

What exactly happened with your injury and how are you now?
I had a calf injury and was out for a few months. During that time, I worked really hard and now I’m 100% fit. I’m not a player who gets injured often – it did affect me. Three years ago, I also had a foot injury, but those were my only two serious injuries.

You’ve played in many countries. What do you take away from that experience?
That there’s good football outside the big leagues. Cyprus also has strong teams and a high level of competition. You might not be in Spain, England, or Germany, but here you can still play in excellent conditions.

How did you decide to play in Australia and India?
I moved to Australia because I had stopped playing football at the age of 20. I wanted to study and learn English, while also playing. Then I returned to Spain and eventually signed for Atlético Madrid B, who had an agreement with a team in India, so I went there on loan. To be honest, the financial offer was also good, so I accepted.

Was it easy returning to European football after those experiences?
Yes, because I still had a contract with Atlético. I joined Ibiza after that. It was more of a personal journey for me.

How would you describe yourself as a footballer?
I’m hardworking, strong, fast, and I believe I have a natural instinct for scoring goals – which is the most important thing for a striker.

Do you think your familiarity with Cypriot football will help you adapt quickly?
Definitely. I know the league and the environment. You play in great stadiums but also face tough away games. I’m ready to help from the start of pre-season. To be honest, I really enjoyed my previous experience in Cyprus and was very satisfied.

What are your goals for this season?
To help in any way I can, to work hard, and of course to score and provide assists.

Do you have a message for the Apollon fans?
I’m really happy and ambitious. I know what Apollon means to the city and the whole of Cyprus. We want to return to Europe and fight for the highest possible targets. This club belongs in European competitions.