The Next Generation - Juan Jose Perea
Juan Jose Perea emerges as a game-changer for Panathinaikos in his first season at the senior level after joining from the youth setup of FC Porto.
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Juan Jose Perea was virtually an unknown player when he put pen to paper for Panathinaikos on a two-year deal last summer. However, the teenage Colombian striker has emerged as a genuine game-changer and a huge asset for the Greens.
Signed from the youth set up of FC Porto, the 19-year-old initially came to train with the first team, and Giorgos Donis was patient with him. However, only after a few weeks, he received his first chance and took it with open arms (substituted on in a 1-3 home loss to OFI). He has not looked back since.
He came on as a substitute against Olympiacos in the Derby of Eternal Enemies at OAKA, which ended in a 1-1 draw. He offered a burst of pace, hunger, and fight. Even after the full-time whistle, he could still be seen protesting.
The rookie’s first senior goal came in the Trifylli’s next home derby against AEK. Again introduced as a second-half substitute, Perea latched onto a perfectly timed low cross to equalise. His goal swung the pendulum in the Greens’ favour, and his presence boosted Panathinaikos’ energy levels and determination.
It was no different against Lamia a few weeks ago. His introduction sparked life into a relatively dull affair. Panathinaikos had only registered one single shot in the first half, but by full-time had ten shots. He possessed everything his teammates lacked in the first half - passion, appetite, aggression, and energy. His every touch scared Lamia’s backline as he boasts pace and trickery.
On top of this, he chases every ball. This high work rate and hunger to succeed have given Donis something to think about, and fans should be excited. Donis has opted to start the previously unknown Colombian in the club’s last two matches, which is a huge sign of confidence.
His goal in that game was also well-taken. He had the awareness the pounce on a mistake by the Lamia backline and punished them with his left foot.
This is a sign of things to come for Perea. He already has two goals to his name, and it appears the best is yet to come. Not only for the rest of this season, where he has entrenched himself as a starter, but also for the long-term.
This is the type of investment Panathinaikos should be looking at. A young, hungry player, who can make a difference with a point to prove. His outlook and playing style has a positive impact on the rest of the squad. It is now up to the coaching staff to further develop his game and take it to a new level.
