It is Deja-Vu at Panathinaikos

Weak, cursed, and vulnerable—these are the words I've used to describe our shocking defeat to Vikingur FC. This sense of disappointment has lingered over the past week, resonating deeply with PAO fans who have experienced this all too often. 

We start each off-season with optimism, securing promising players after a whirlwind of transfer targets. There's initial promise, but then hiccups occur, nearly derailing our season. We manage a streak of positive results, often with our rivals dropping points, pulling us back into the title race. However, the winter transfer window brings last-minute signings (like Swiderski and Siopis) after a series of intense matches, including derbies, only for us to unexpectedly drop points. This pattern results in lackluster performances when we should be winning.

The game against Panserraikos stands out as a critical moment. Leading 2-0, we were undone by poor officiating—Dragowski's red card and a dubious penalty, leading to a 2-2 draw. Since then, our form has dipped. Although we fought back from a 0-2 deficit to win against OFI, this was followed by three consecutive losses (Olympiacos in the Cup, Aris in the League, and Vikingur in the Conference League). In these games, our play has been uninspired, and we've not managed to maintain the standard expected.

This annual cycle raises questions about our performance. Why does early promise turn into disappointment? Injuries could be one reason, but they're only part of the story.

Is our squad up to par? Clearly, some players don't meet the club's demands, with recruitment and retention issues under Papadimitriou's tenure, exemplified by Max's inconsistent fitness.

As I reflect on the club's situation, I ask: Do we possess the passion, the "τσαμπουκά" (grit), to win? Are we indeed weak, cursed, and vulnerable?

The blame largely falls on Alafouzos, the owner. Despite increased investments and some good player acquisitions, his 14-year stewardship has been marked by turmoil and failure. There's been no commitment to youth development or building a squad to truly challenge for titles, alongside a series of poor decisions like the sacking of Jovanovic, the appointment of Papadimitriou as technical director, and the move from Leoforos to OAKA without necessary renovations. He lacks the footballing passion and strategic vision needed for championship success. Compare this to Iliopoulos at AEK, who has revitalized fan relations, player quality, and stood firm against external pressures, showing what effective leadership can achieve. It was only a few years ago DPG was in a similar boat to Alafouzos, but he has turned it around with most of the fans. He is fighting an endless war with Olympiacos, Euroleague & Greece Basket itself.

Our "τσαμπουκά"? It's there sporadically but not consistently. We've shown flashes against OFI, but this hasn't translated into sustained success.

Fan passion? Our support is fragmented, disillusioned with the club's direction. Attendance has waned, even for significant matches like derbies or on days honoring legends like Domazos. The internal strife within Gate 13 further complicates matters.

Without a comprehensive change from top to bottom, we'll continue this cycle of disappointment. We must break this pattern, dispel the feeling of being weak, cursed, and vulnerable, and start anew.