Tony Popovic sacked by Xanthi FC

·

Tony Popovic’s time with Greek Super League 2 club Xanthi FC is already over, with the two parting ways just nine games into the season.

In a statement posted on Xanthi’s website in the early hours of Tuesday morning, the club confirmed it had ended its cooperation with the 47-year-old coach with immediate effect.

Demonstrating the utter ruthlessness of European football, the decision comes despite Popovic guiding the Akrítes to a 2-1 win over OF Ierapetra – a third win in the past four games – on the weekend. They are due to play Panachaiki next Sunday.

Xanthi currently sit fifth on the table of Greece’s second tier but are just four points behind league leaders Ergotelis and have a game in hand over the second, third and fourth-placed teams.

Reports from Greek football observers, however, had suggested discontent was emerging with Xanthi’s style of play before the ousting.

Sunday’s win over bottom-of-the-table lerapetra was the first occasion the side had scored more than two goals in a game.

Popovic had departed Perth Glory for the Xanthi position at the conclusion of their 2019-20 A-League campaign, having won an A-League premiership and secured back-to-back finals campaigns in West Australia.

The Greek club was taken over last year by Sydney Olympic President Bill Papas, who spoke of a desire to turn the club into an outpost for Australian exports seeking a doorway into the crucible that is European football.

The Akrítes were relegated from the Greek Super League last season due to points deductions over irregularities surrounding the previous ownership.

Once there, Popovic was joined on staff by long-time collaborator Zeljko Kalac – who himself left Xanthi three weeks ago – and former Western Sydney Wanderers mentor guru Arthur Diles – whose status is unclear after the announcement of Popovic’s exit.

Former Socceroos Josh Brillante and Matthew Jurman, ex-Adelaide United goalkeeper Paul Izzo, Wellington Phoenix utility Callan Elliot and Popovic’s sons Kristian and Gabriel also signed for Xanthi following the former Western Sydney Wanderers and Glory coach’s arrival.

Popovic’s charge leading this Aussie contingent, however, has now ended.

“I want to thank Tony for the excellent work he has offered to the team since September 2020 when he took office,” Papas said in a statement – which has been translated from Greek to English.

“With great sadness and respect for Tony, we announce the end of our partnership.

“I wish Tony and his family all the best for the future.”

Source: SBS World Game.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Spurs sack Ange Postecoglou despite Europa League glory

Tottenham Hotspur have confirmed that Ange Postecoglou will not continue as manager next season, despite ending the club’s 17-year trophy drought with a Europa...

Meet TIFFANY: The Greek Australian artist making waves in RnB

Are you looking for your new favourite Greek artist who combines unique sounds of RnB, house and EDM music?

Heirs of a Greek inheritance: Most common problems to deal with

There are many people of Greek descent all over the world whose parents or other close relatives had properties in Greece.

Niki Louca shares her family favourite Indokaridopita (coconut cake) recipe

It is a cake her aunty Panayiota used to make often in years gone by, and one she hasn’t had for a long time.

Naz Vardar to give Melbourne seminar on shaping Vlach identity

The focus lies on the story of a Vlach priest navigating his way within the local Vlach community in Manastir (Bitola).

You May Also Like

Lender acquiring Jon Adgemis’ pubs proposes new George Calombaris restaurant

Celebrity chef George Calombaris may soon open a restaurant at Sydney's Oxford Tavern, as lenders aim for more assets from Jon Adgemis.

Tsitsipas loses his cool as he suffers ATP Cup loss to Nick Kyrgios

The match is sure to be remembered as action-filled, featuring three tie-breakers and Tsitsipas' complete loss of control.

Joe Biden wins US Presidency, vows to unite America

Joe Biden will become the 46th president of the United States after winning the critical state of Pennsylvania, bringing an end to Donald Trump's...