Marin At Center Of Hasi’s Plans
One player who looks set to feature in a more prominent role this season for Olympiacos is none other than Marko Marin. The German playmaker came to the Piraeus side last season amidst much fanfare, however his resulting campaign left much to be desired.
Paulo Bento did not appear to believe fully in the player and after a decent start to the campaign, Marin found himself between the bench and the stands. In Greek Super League play, the 28-year-old featured in only 14 matches, contributing four goals and four assists.
With the appointment of Besnik Hasi as manager however, the situation has improved for the former Chelsea and Werder Bremen midfielder. Having worked with Marin at Anderlecht, Hasi is a big believer in Marin’s ability. And throughout the entire preseason he has shown a willingness to give Marin a real opportunity this season. Specifically, Hasi appears to be targeting Marin as one of his key players especially in an attacking sense heading into the Champions’ League qualifiers next month.
Greek media always love to talk about “esoterikes metagrafes”, those players within a side who are set for a restart and will feel like a new transfer signing. This could well be the case this season with Marin. Hasi’s belief in the player could mean more playing time for the former German international. This could also set up a real battle for the number 10 spot with Kostas Fortounis. And perhaps that would spur the Greek international to up his game even more and return to his form of the 2015/16 campaign when he was superb throughout.
Regardless, Marin appears to have a new lease on life with Olympiacos and it will be interesting watching to see whether he can snap up this opportunity and kickstart a career that has had some tough times over the last few years.
