Anorthosis press officer Haris Ioannou spoke to “Super Sport 104.0.”

He spoke about the start of the season, the roster, Nestor El Maestro, the transfer ban, and the major investor.

He also noted that by August 4, when the roster will be presented, there will be developments regarding the stadium’s naming rights as well as the club’s corporate structure.

Here is what he said in detail

On the new season that began yesterday: “We’re looking forward to the new season with optimism. The transfer ban isn’t pleasant, especially for a team like Anorthosis, but I believe there are plenty of options for the new coach. The issue of the transfer ban was something we had in mind, and I believe Anorthosis hasn’t been left completely empty-handed. We have players and resources, and perhaps this is an opportunity for us to showcase some players through this challenge.”

On the roster: “The coach is the ultimate authority over the entire situation. He will choose the number and names of the players he wants to move forward with. Beyond that, our job is to help him. I believe we have the talent and, of course, the chemistry, so there won’t be any particular issue with team cohesion. One of the criteria we used in selecting the new coach is the development of our players. That’s one of our goals.”

On the goal: “We can’t make predictions, nor will we speculate on whether it will be an easy or difficult season. The fans have grown accustomed to seeing the team in a leading role. It’s not something the fans accept easily, but they’ve shown their support and patience because these are indeed the most difficult years Anorthosis has faced in the last decade. We thank the fans for their support; we’re approaching 3,000 season tickets. The fans are attuned to the situation and certainly want to see results on the field. It’s a transitional season. The results will show whether it will be easy or difficult.”

On the financial outlook for the new season: “I believe it’s only a matter of time before Anorthosis finds its rightful place. What I can say is that we have a vision and a plan. And whoever has those will be rewarded in the end.”

On the issue of an investor: “This is something we’ve mentioned many times. We’re constantly looking into it. Nevertheless, I believe that Anorthosis is a very large club that shouldn’t rely on a single person, while at the same time it’s an attractive destination with a large fan base. The issue of an investor is not a simple one. Anyone who wants to get involved wants their own guarantees—as, of course, does Anorthosis. We must be doubly and triply cautious about who comes in and what they intend to do. Anorthosis has a history behind it, with a loyal following, and we cannot let anyone run things unchecked.”

Regarding the naming rights and whether Christos Marangos’s name remains in the running for executive president of the club: “The roster will be presented on August 4. I believe that by that date we’ll have announcements to make regarding the stadium’s naming as well as developments concerning the club. I don’t want to get into specific names. There are ongoing discussions and negotiations.”

Regarding El Maestro: “He’s aware of the situation. We presented our plan to him. He hasn’t been here for a few months. He signed a two-year contract. So there’s a plan in place—both from us and from him. He’s watched the team quite a bit, and I believe that from the very first training sessions, he’ll start drawing his initial conclusions. He believes he has a good group of players.”

On the loss of Sensi: “It was a real luxury to have Sensi here in Cyprus, and he proved why he has such an impressive resume. We made a tremendous effort—and went above and beyond financially—to keep him. Beyond that, everyone makes their own choices.”