After five years with Panathinaikos, the time has come for Yiannis Kotsiras to leave, and he bid farewell to the “Greens” with a message posted on his personal Instagram account.

The veteran defender has now returned to Tripoli and Asteras, the team where he got his start.

In detail:

“There are moments that can’t be measured in years, but moments that last forever.

A great and significant chapter of my career and my life has come to a close after five years!

The time has come to say goodbye to this tremendous club that has given me so much, having worn the shamrock on my chest with honor and pride! For my part, from my very first day to my last, I always tried to give—and did give—my very best, with respect for the jersey, the club, and its fans!

I would like to warmly thank the club’s management, President Yiannis Alafouzos, and everyone at Panathinaikos, who welcomed me with trust from the very beginning and made me feel like a member of the “Green” Family.

A huge thank you to all the coaches, my teammates, the medical staff, the physical therapists, and everyone I’ve worked with over the years. Each of you has left your own mark on this journey.

And, above all, a huge thank you to the Panathinaikos fans. For your support, love, and presence at every moment, whether easy or difficult. The strength you gave us from the stands was always special and something I will never forget.

I wish with all my heart that Panathinaikos achieves all its goals and enjoys the successes that its history and its fans deserve.

I’m not saying goodbye. I’m saying a big thank you.

For everything.”

*photo source: KYPE