At just 16 years old, Giannis Argyridis is fulfilling one of his biggest dreams. In an interview on Apollon’s official website, he talks about his feelings, his first experiences with the first team, his memories as an Apollon fan, and the goals he has set for the future.

Here’s what he said in detail:

“I’m absolutely thrilled. It’s always been a lifelong dream of mine to play for Apollon and sign a professional contract with the team of my heart,” said the young soccer player, who views this development as a starting point rather than a final destination.

“I believe this is just the beginning. I haven’t achieved anything yet. I need to keep my head down and work hard so that one day I can establish myself on the first team,” he emphasizes.

As he explains, the demands are now increasing, and his daily routine is changing.

Argyridis recalls his first training sessions with the first team, which took place last April, with particular emotion.

“I was nervous because I wanted to show Mr. Losada that I could handle the intensity and level of the first team. I think I made a good impression, and I was really happy when I found out that the team staff was satisfied with my performance.”

He plays primarily as a left winger, though he can cover all three positions in the attack. His key strengths include his speed and his ability to move into the space behind the opposing defense.

His connection with Apollon, however, began long before he donned the first-team jersey. As a child, he experienced intense moments from the stands and carries memories that are etched in his mind

“I remember the European match against Nice in 2013 and the big qualification. My parents have told me more about it, since I was only three years old, but I have vivid images of the plane and the bus ride to Nice. What I remember most vividly is the celebration after winning the championship in 2022. Another special memory is from Tsirion Stadium, when, as a child, I accompanied the players onto the field and dreamed that one day I’d be in their place.”

When asked about his soccer role models, he singles out two players who wore the Apollon jersey.

“I really liked the way Sasha Marković played. He was a calm player with an exceptional shot. From when I was younger, I also remember Gastón Sangoy, who was a constant threat to every opposing defense.”

He was also particularly impressed by the people he met in the first-team locker room during his first training sessions.

“Everyone welcomed me with so much warmth. I especially remember Marques, who told me not to get nervous, to be myself, and to keep working the way I do, because the opportunity will come.”

As for his goals, the young soccer player makes no secret of his great desire.

“My personal goal is to make my debut with Apollon, either this year or next. I really want to celebrate titles with this team. It’s one thing to experience it from the stands and quite another as a player.”

“What’s changing for me is the way I’ll work. I have to train even harder, be more professional, and make the most of every opportunity I’m given.”

In closing, he made sure to thank the people who have stood by him throughout his journey.

“First and foremost, I want to thank my family, who have always been by my side, all the coaches who helped me develop, and Apollon for giving me this opportunity.

In my room, I have several jerseys from the team’s players, and one of the most special ones is the autographed jersey of Giorgos Vasileiou. Today, he’s the U-19 development coordinator and is one of the people who helped bring me here. A few years ago, I wished to become a player for Apollon, and today, when I think about the fact that I signed a professional contract with the team, I tell myself that my dream is coming true.”