PAOK’s elimination from European competition left a deep sense of bitterness within the team, not only because of the competitive aspect but also because of the financial consequences of being unable to continue in the tournaments. Despite the disappointment and the debate that has arisen regarding the way forward, the prevailing sentiment at Toumba is to avoid hasty decisions and to stick to the plan that has been laid out.
In this context, Ivan Savvidis appears determined to support the people who have taken on the task of shaping the new PAOK. Alessio Lisi, Leo Matos, and André Vieirinha continue to have the confidence of the club’s powerful figurehead, despite the fact that the initial European results were not what was hoped for. The prevailing view is that such a major change at the coaching, playing, and organizational levels takes time to bear fruit, and that the team should not change course at the first sign of failure.
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At the same time, PAOK believes that the current roster needs further reinforcement, and the plan calls for three more signings. The positions identified as priorities are center forward, center back, and right back. For the striker position, the club is looking for a player with a strong scoring instinct and the ability to finish plays, while in the center of the defense, there is a need for a player with personality and leadership qualities. On the right side of the defense, the need for an additional option is also considered important to provide greater depth to the roster.
At the same time, the possibility of signing a defensive midfielder had been considered; however, the positive impression Taylor has made on Alesio Lisi seems to be changing the situation. The current plan is to keep him on the roster and not make any additional moves for that position, provided his performance continues to be positive. This allows PAOK to focus most of its attention and available resources on the three positions that have been identified as the most pressing needs.
The message being sent by management, therefore, is that the elimination will not lead to a reversal of their plans. Savvidis appears willing to give the new operational model time to take effect and to support the decisions of his staff, while awaiting the necessary on-field response. The upcoming transfer moves are now taking on even greater significance, as PAOK is well aware that strengthening the roster and improving performance on the field are the two key prerequisites for quickly turning things around.
*photo source: KYPE
