Evan Fournier shared his views on the rivalry between Olympiacos and Panathinaikos, as well as the possibility of a truce between the two clubs at some point, in an interview he gave to Magenta TV on the show “Pick n Roll.”
The French guard for Olympiacos admitted that during his first season in Greece, he felt the tension between the two teams was unhealthy and that there was room for improvement. However, his experience from his first finals changed his perspective, and he now appears pessimistic about the possibility of the tension subsiding.
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“We don’t have any off-court issues with the players. I don’t think there can be a truce. To be honest, in my first season, when I didn’t have the experience yet, I felt that all of this was unhealthy and that things could improve. However, during my first Finals, I realized this and completely changed my perspective. A truce is unthinkable. The players and fans follow the leadership. If the leadership wants us to go to war, then everyone will follow. If the leadership changes its stance, then things will change too,” he said emphatically.
At the same time, Fournier emphasized that the intense rivalry is an important element of the Greek league; but the tensions that spill over beyond the court—especially on social media—have a negative impact on its image.
“It’s great that the Greek league has such intense rivalries. It would be very important for the league to have teams with such rivalries. However, it’s the stuff on the sidelines that tarnishes the image. Social media and the teams’ official accounts are hurting the product,” he noted.
The “Red-and-Whites’” star even highlighted the atmosphere created by Greek fans, expressing his disappointment that the Super Cup was held without them in the stands.
“The league is an exceptional product, and the country has some of the most beautiful stands. For example, I was very sad that we didn’t have fans in the stadium for the Super Cup, even though we have the best atmosphere in Europe. “Everyone needs to take a small first step so that things can improve for everyone,” he added.
Finally, Fournier was asked if he would go out to dinner with Panathinaikos players, revealing that he has discussed the possibility with Moustapha Fall. As he explained, he doesn’t think the middle of the season is the right time for such a move, leaving the possibility open for the summer.
“I’ve discussed it with Fal. I’m not sure that during the season is the right time to do it. Maybe during the summer, but I’m probably crazy, you know. I’m friends with these guys, but in the middle of the season isn’t the right time. It’s red versus green. I’m too committed to the season to do both. “When the season is over, we’ll have time to talk and see what we’ll do with the French national team. But honestly, not right now—I don’t think so,” he concluded.
*photo source: KYPE
