Panagiotis Retsos was one of the unlucky ones during Olympiacos’ preseason, as he was injured in the “Red-and-Whites’” first friendly match, against Rakov and hasn’t played since, mainly as a precaution.

He has gradually returned to full training and is expected to see playing time in the Piraeus club’s final two friendlies, against Antwerp and Alkmaar, on July 24 and 25.

The matches against Nijmegen in the third qualifying round of the Champions League are approaching, and the international center back’s readiness is essential for José Luis Mendilibar.

Panagiotis Retsos spoke about Olympiacos’ opponent, while also addressing the team’s readiness, the new players, and the motivation heading into the new season.

Here’s what Panagiotis Retsos had to say in detail

On the Champions League opponent and the team’s level of readiness: “First of all, Nijmegen had a very good season last year. They finished third and play in a competitive league. When we’ve played against teams from the Netherlands, we’ve struggled because they play their own style of soccer—without anxiety or pressure, obviously an attacking style. So we know they’ll be a tough opponent. When it comes to qualifying for the Champions League, we expect them to go all out and give it their all. So we’ll have to be even more prepared than we are now, and I think we’re doing pretty well. I believe we’ll be in good shape by then.”

On whether it helps that the team is in the Netherlands and playing against local teams: “It definitely helps, although the weather hasn’t been what we expected these past few days—it’s been a bit hotter than usual. Of course, no matter which country we’re playing in, I think we’ve shown that we can cope with both cold and hot weather. So we’re just waiting and preparing.”

On the new players who have joined the team: “We know that the new additions will need time to adjust. Of course, Karmo knows exactly what’s needed. But the arrival of Kostas (Fortounis) and David (Karmo), who know the game plan, will certainly help us, as will the other guys. I think they’ll adapt very quickly and feel happy, which is very important for a team.”

On motivation after losing the league title: “The goal is first to qualify and secure a spot in the Champions League group stage. I consider it the premier competition, so that’s our primary objective. Beyond that, as I said last year, the team’s number one goal for the season, in my opinion, is to win the league title. Because, unfortunately, last year we weren’t able to bring that joy to our fans, and this year we’ve made it our goal from the very beginning. I believe we’ll succeed.”

On what we need to do against Nijmegen: “We need to approach this game the same way we approach every European match. With that same intensity, that same focus—and without underestimating our opponent. We know they’ll have good players, and obviously, through their hard work, they’ve managed to get where they are. We need to show what we’re capable of, just like in every European match.”

On his childhood photo wearing the Olympiacos jersey: “I don’t remember it. It’s definitely the first photo that comes to mind as soon as I hear the word ‘Olympiacos.’ Because I’ve played everywhere. That photo is my first one; it’s all my memories, it’s all the happy moments I’ve experienced here, and it reminds me of where I started.”

*photo source: Olympiacos FC