Olympiacos Piraeus will open 2026 with what is widely considered the most intense game of their season, as they travel to face archrivals Panathinaikos Aktor Athens in the Greek Derby on Friday.
With a 9–7 record and a game in hand, Olympiacos know that a victory is crucial to remain firmly in the EuroLeague playoff picture. However, the derby arrives at a moment of added pressure, as the club is also racing against the clock on the transfer market.
The EuroLeague deadline for transfers between EuroLeague clubs expires in just four days, forcing teams still evaluating roster changes to move quickly. Head coach Georgios Bartzokas confirmed that Olympiacos remain active, while stopping short of offering specifics ahead of such a pivotal matchup.
“A lot of teams are active on the market right now, and that’s visible, especially because of the January 5 deadline,” Bartzokas said. “We are present, but we have a game tomorrow, and I wouldn’t like to comment further.”
Speaking again before the derby, Bartzokas reiterated that the club’s front office continues to explore options to strengthen the roster.
“Olympiacos is still present on the market, but for me to sit down and think about that the day before the match is not my role,” he explained. “We obviously have people responsible for that.”
Bartzokas added that the coaching staff is working closely with ownership to identify potential reinforcements, aware that the decisive phase of the season is approaching.
“We give recommendations on how to strengthen the team, together with owners who want to help, because trophies are decided in the upcoming part of the season,” he concluded.
Commenta
Visualizza commenti