Panathinaikos: Flying to Rotterdam – Benitez studies the roster and plans the first changes

THE Panathinaikos puts domestic action behind him and turns to Thursday’s European challenge against Feyenoord. The “green” team departs this morning (11:00) on a charter flight to Rotterdam, where they will face the Dutch in “De Kap” (23/10, 19:45), as part of the 2nd match of the League Phase of the UEFA Europa Conference League.

The journey takes about 3.5 hours, with Panathinaikos returning to the stadium where they won 0-3 in a friendly in the summer of 2019, with Makenda, Bouzoukis and Vergo scoring. This time, however, the stakes are much higher.

At the same time, the interest is also focused on the issue of the coach, as well as his arrival Rafa Benitez on the “green” bench he is in the final stretch. The Spanish coach, together with his staff, has already started the analysis of the roster and the competition data of the “clover”. He is expected to be joined by Jesus García Vallejo (analyst), Paco de Miguel (assistant), Antonio Gomes (fitness trainer) and Joaquin Valerio (goalkeeping coach).

Benitez has watched several of the team’s games, both this year and last year, and has formed clear picture for roster needs and capabilities. His first appearance on the bench may take place on Sunday (26/10) in the match against Asteras AKTOR in Leoforos, for the 8th matchday of the Stoiximan Super League, or a few days later in the Cup against Atromitos.

The Spanish technician comes with a clear planknowing that time is limited and the pressure for immediate results great. His goal is to make use of the existing potential, cover the competitive gaps and give Panathinaikos the identity it needs to return to a leading role, within and outside the borders.

In parallel with the competitive preparations, developments on the transfer front are also “running” at Panathinaikos, as the Rafa Benitez, in collaboration with Francesco Baldini and the administrationis expected to proceed with corrective actions immediately. The plan includes three main additions: A winger (preferably left), a stopper and a midfielder in the axis, with the specific position becoming clear in the coming days.

The possibility of two more transfers remains open, as long as the Spanish coach completes it evaluation of soul potential. Already, however, he has a clear picture of the basic needs of the team, and he is reported to have “locks” cases of players from the Spanish market, who fit his philosophy.

Panathinaikos will move for first-line footballers, with quality and experience, while available budget may reach quite high levelsreflecting the ambition for an immediate competitive upgrade and return to a leading role.