Panathinaikos’ budget largely depending on broadcasting deal
The decision concerning the future of the 2019/2020 campaign will naturally affect Panathinaikos’ preparations for next season, while Giannis Bouzoukis is set to be given a more important role if Ghayas Zahid leaves.
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According to reports from Livesport, Giannis Alafouzos has given Xavi Roca the green light to begin forming the squad for the 2020/2021 campaign, but the plans depend on the budget. At the moment, it’s still not clear if the current season will eventually be completed, although the signs are pointing towards games beginning in June. Alafouzos has already made it clear that he doesn’t support the proposal of successfully completing the 2019/2020 season because of financial reasons.
Panathinaikos’ budget will be fixed after it’s known how much money the club will receive in the broadcasting contract for next season. It is still not certain that the Athenians will opt to continue working with Nova after the 2019/2020 campaign ends.
There has even been talk of creating one broadcasting deal for all clubs participating in the Super League.
ZAHID EXPECTED TO LEAVE
Since arriving on loan from APOEL, Ghayas Zahid has largely impressed for Panathinaikos, with the Norwegian attacking midfielder scoring four goals and dishing out four assists in the Super League. However, on Monday, APOEL press officer Nektarios Petevinos revealed that Zahid will be recalled by the Cypriots for the 2020/2021 season.
Zahid’s departure is expected to allow Giannis Bouzoukis to play in the number 10 role.
Bouzoukis, still only 22, has struggled to take the step to the next level this season. Nevertheless, the Panathinaikos wants to make Bouzoukis one of the main attacking forces in the team, playing him directly behind the striker. Bouzoukis only tallied one goal and one assist in the Super League regular season.
PRE-SEASON TO BE HELD ON HELLENIC TERRITORY
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, which has severely limited travel and restricted movement, Panathinaikos are predicted to confirm that they will hold their pre-season training camps in Karpenisi instead of travelling abroad.
The leadership of the club came to the conclusion that it would be much safer to stage the 2020/2021 season preparations in Greece.
