In connection with the signing of Francis Uzoh, the chairman of the board of directors of Omonia 29 May, Adamos Efstathiou, referred to his conversation with Stavros Papastavrou, describing it as an important step toward normalizing relations between the two sides.
In detail:
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
“Uzoho and the Normalization of Relations
In the eight years since our club was founded, we have collaborated with dozens of clubs and soccer organizations, ranging from amateur teams to those representing us in Europe. Even with teams that are historically and in terms of fan loyalty at odds with us, we have always found ways to cooperate professionally within the framework of inter-club relations and transactions.
It is well known in soccer circles that this was never the case between the two “Omonia” clubs, since there was an informal (and in many cases, official) embargo in place, extending from the first team down to the academy players, and even affecting those who left as free agents.
The Uzoho case marks the first time the two organizations have reached an agreement at the official level. This certainly could not have become a reality without the consent of Stavros Papastavrou, and I am particularly grateful for his positive response to my phone call. It was our mutual intention, through this agreement, to send a message to the supporters of both teams, that differing views on the issue of ASOL’s privatization do not justify extreme behavior on either side.
Treating each other the way we treat all other teams may sound trivial, but it’s a big step forward when you consider where our relationship stood previously. I’m sure that the normalization of relations at the administrative level is a relief to many fans who didn’t take sides in ’18, but certainly also quite a few who, even though they made their choice, didn’t agree with how the relationship between the two sides turned out.
We couldn’t have imagined a better start, both on and off the field. Let’s head to our home stadium this coming Friday to continue the journey.”
