Kostas Manolas, a former Champions League hero, has decided to leave elite football behind and return to his roots by joining a non-league club in Greece. The well-known defender made a name for himself playing for top clubs like Roma and Napoli in Serie A, with his standout performance being the legendary goal he scored for Roma that eliminated Barcelona from the Champions League six years ago.
Despite attracting interest from big Premier League clubs like Manchester United, Arsenal, and Chelsea in recent years, Manolas has now made the surprising decision to play for his local club Pannaxiakos in the Cyclades’ First Division until June. The 33-year-old Olympiacos legend has returned to his birthplace in the isle of Naxos, where he and his family have settled, to help his new team strive for promotion to the third division.
After successful stints at clubs like AEK Athens, Roma, and Napoli, Manolas has chosen to give back to his community by joining Pannaxiakos and contributing to their efforts in the upcoming championship. The club’s announcement of his arrival was met with great joy and pride, highlighting Manolas’ impressive career and the impact he has had on European football.
Throughout his career, Manolas has scored eight goals in 206 appearances, but none have been as memorable as the one he scored against Barcelona in the Champions League. He believes that goal changed Roma’s image in the world and could have even led them to the Champions League final if VAR was available at the time. Despite the what-ifs and missed opportunities, Manolas remains proud of his accomplishments and the legacy he has left in the football world.
As he transitions from elite football to non-league competition, Manolas’ decision to play for Pannaxiakos reflects his commitment to giving back to his roots and supporting his local community. His journey from Champions League glory to grassroots football serves as a reminder of the importance of staying connected to one’s origins and using one’s platform to make a positive impact at all levels of the sport.