Connor Goldson made his first statements as an Apollon player!

Shortly after the announcement by the “blue-and-whites,” the English center back spoke to the team’s website about, among other things, his feelings, the reasons he decided to sign, when the initial contact was made, the discussions he had with Hernán Lozada, Makis Papaioannou, and Morgan Brown, as well as his soccer skills.

In detail:

Welcome to Apollon. How do you feel about starting this new chapter in your career?

I’m very happy and excited. Everything happened very quickly, and I’m glad the transfer is complete so I can now begin this new chapter in my career.

What was it about Apollon that made you say “yes”?

First of all, my family is happy in Limassol, and I wanted us to stay here. At the same time, I’ve been following Apollon’s progress over the last few months under the new coach, and it really excited me.

There were discussions with other clubs as well, but in the end, my family and I chose Apollon. I believed in what the club is trying to build—the project, the facilities, and the people on the team. At this stage of my career, there are things more important than money, and that’s why I chose Apollon.

When did the initial contact take place, and what were your first impressions?

Discussions began at the end of last season, in May. It was very encouraging that the club showed interest so early on and clearly presented its plan and aspirations to me. I returned from my vacation and signed the contract as soon as the final details were settled.

How important were the discussions with the coach and Makis Papaioannou?

I spoke with both of them. They explained the club’s ambitions to me and where they want to take the team. I saw that Apollon has changed direction and wants to continue to evolve and improve. That played a significant role in my decision.

You’d already spent two years in Cyprus. How much did that influence your decision to stay here?

Very much so. We’re all very happy here. My family—my wife and children—have fully adapted to life in Limassol. Not having to move to a new country again was a major factor in my decision.

Did you talk to anyone before making your final decision?

Yes, I spoke at length with Morgan Brown. We’ve had a very good relationship since our time together at Aris, and we’ve stayed in touch. He really wanted me to come to Apollon and kept asking me when the transfer would be finalized. He believed I could help the team and was very happy when I finally signed.

You’ve already faced Apollon five times. What was it like to play against them?

They were different games, against different versions of the team. Last season, however, I saw a different Apollon toward the end of the year. The coach did a great job, and I hope that now, with the preseason training and the work that lies ahead, we’ll have a great season together.

You’ve played in major leagues and in more than 80 European matches. How have all these experiences shaped you?

I feel very lucky for the career I’ve had so far. I’ve experienced things that, as a child, I couldn’t even have dreamed of. All of this came through hard work and dedication to soccer. My career isn’t over yet. I’m only 33 years old, and I feel I still have a lot to offer.

What moment stands out most in your career?

There are many, but if I had to pick two, I’d say the Europa League final—even though we didn’t manage to win—and my Premier League debut, which was a childhood dream come true.

What still motivates you to keep going with the same passion?

When I was 24, I underwent open-heart surgery following a routine checkup. From that moment on, I realized that you should never take soccer for granted, because everything can change in the blink of an eye. Now I have my children, who give me even greater motivation to keep going, to play, and to compete for titles.

What can Connor Goldson bring to Apollon, both on and off the field?

I always try to bring my own strengths to every team I play for. I want to win; I have high standards, and I work as hard as I can every day to help the team succeed and move in the right direction.

How would you describe yourself as a soccer player?

I always try to give my best. I focus only on what I can control—namely, my daily work and my efforts to improve and become a better player. I know that when I’m at my best, I can make a significant contribution to any team.

Many people describe you as a leader. Is that something you were born with, or did it come with experience?

Yes, it comes naturally to me. I talk a lot on the field and feel comfortable in that role. I believe it’s important for a center back to organize the team, communicate, and help his teammates.

Apollon is returning to European competition. How excited are you to experience European nights again?

Very much so. We know the road to qualification is difficult, but we have to take each game as it comes. We’ll work hard in preparation, and when the matches come, we’ll give it our all.

What does a team need to compete for titles and stay competitive?

Above all, it needs unity. I’ve heard a lot about how close-knit this team is, and I’ve seen it for myself from my very first moments here. Everyone—the players and the staff—gave me an amazing welcome. If we maintain this cohesion and keep working hard every day, there’s no reason why we shouldn’t aim for big goals.

How do you feel about the prospect of playing alongside Kvidda?

It’s great, and I believe it’s part of the project. That’s one of the reasons I came here. I know what a great season he had, and I’ve faced him many times. He’s a top-class defender, and I believe we can build a very strong partnership.

At this stage of your career, what do you want to leave as your legacy at Apollon?

I want to win titles. I want my kids to see their father lifting trophies again and celebrating alongside his teammates and the fans. That’s why we play soccer.

What’s the first message you want to send to Apollon’s fans?

I want them to support us as much as they can this season. I watched the Cup final and saw just how dynamic the fans’ presence was. If we have that kind of atmosphere at ALFAMEGA for every game, it will give us a huge advantage. There will be good times and tough times, but if we all stick together, I believe we can achieve something wonderful.