Cedi Osman explained the reasons why he did not stay with Panathinaikos, though he harbors no ill will toward anyone in the organization.
Speaking to Eurohoops, the Turkish forward mentioned a possible lack of communication and emphasized that he sensed the “Greens” likely wanted to move in a different direction.
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
“I had one more year left on my contract; I thought there might be talks about a renewal. But obviously, things didn’t turn out that way. And it wasn’t just me who felt that way—it was mutual on both sides. It wasn’t a case of me wanting it and them not wanting it. Both sides were enthusiastic, but in the end, it didn’t work out so well. It’s business; these things happen, and there’s never any ill will. I spent two wonderful years there; I had a special relationship with the fans, with everyone on the Panathinaikos team, and with Dimitris Giannakopoulos as well. In the end, it wasn’t necessarily a matter of poor communication, but perhaps we didn’t communicate enough, let’s say, over the summer. I had the feeling that they wanted to go in a different direction, and we as players can sense that, we can pick up on it. That’s why I decided to come to PAOK, where I’ll feel more valued and have the opportunity to play a more important role, to be myself. “It was a difficult summer for me, but I’m happy with where I ended up,” he emphasized.
When asked if he had spoken with Dimitris Giannakopoulos before leaving, he replied: “We spoke before he posted (editor’s note: the post in which he said he was saddened by Osman’s decision to leave but respected it). We had a good, serious conversation; there was no ill will, and there never will be on my part. I believe the same is true on his part. I always gave everything I had. I know he loves me and that he liked me as a player, and I’m very grateful to him for that. We had a very good relationship, but in the end, it didn’t work out for either of us.”
As for what he hopes to achieve during his three years at PAOK? “Obviously, winning titles. First of all, as far as this season is concerned, winning the EuroCup and then qualifying for the EuroLeague. We’ll see what happens after that. But right now, I’m very satisfied with the dedication, vision, and self-confidence that define our team—these are very important qualities for us. I’m especially glad to be a part of this season. It will take time, but when I retire from basketball, I definitely want to look back and see the titles I’ve won.”
*photo source: KYPE
