‘This game is something special’: Sokratis to face former Arsenal teammates in Europa League

·

Sokratis Papastathopoulos will have the chance to see his former Arsenal teammates again, this time in less friendly circumstances as Olympiakos draws Arsenal in the Europa League last-16.

Almost one year ago today, Olympiakos pulled off a stunning last minute equaliser against Arsenal to proceed through the next stage of the Europa League. This year, the Gunners will be seeking revenge.

Sokratis Papastathopoulos spent two and a half years in England, forming close relationships with Arsenal players Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who he spent many years with at Borussia Dortmund, as well as Mesut Ozil before his departure from the club.

This will be the first time the Greek will have to defend against Aubameyang in a professional match after having played with the Gabonese player for up to seven years.

Speaking about the matchup on Olympiakos TV, Sokratis said he believes it will be a “difficult game”.

“This game is something special [for me]. I believe it will be a difficult game.”

“Arsenal is a very big team. [Since the last game] They have the same coach with two or three new players, it’s a team with very high quality but we also have points that we can hit.”

Last year, Olympiacos striker El-Arabi netted a dramatic late winner in extra-time to knock Arsenal out of the Europa League. Aubameyang missed a close opportunity in the six yard box at the 120+4′ mark, putting the shot wide and drawing their Europa League campaign to a close.

At the previous tie in Greece, Sokratis spoke about how proud he felt to play on home soil, despite playing for an opposition team.

“Twelve years later I returned to a Greek stadium. Even as an adversary, even as a “stranger” it was a special experience for me that filled me with special emotions. In my football career up until now, moments have been important to me. So I lived and yesterday at such a moment to fight against a Greek team. I only hold what was generous to me as a whole. Some small disagreements just stay out of touch with me!!!”

Now on Greek soil, Sokratis will feel even stronger to prevent his former teammates from scoring and bring Olympiakos closer to a Europa League title.

Cretan Convention - Web Banner

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

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

Advertisement

Latest News

From Metallica to Maritime: The many lives of Greek shipping tycoon Harry Vafias

Though Greek shipping tycoon, Harry Vafias, spends much time working, it certainly isn't a case of 'all work and no play.’

‘I want them to know their word matters’: Peter Georgiou stands against gender violence

Peter Georgiou, a real estate agent from Rushcutters Bay and father of four-year-old twins Leila and Lola, believes change begins at home.

Thessaloniki’s Byzantine walls to shine with new light project

Thessaloniki’s iconic Byzantine Walls are set to be illuminated under a major cultural initiative announced by the Greek Ministry of Culture.

Greek World Heritage Cities face rising climate threats

Iconic Greek cities—Athens, Thessaloniki, Corfu, Rhodes, and Patmos—face serious climate threats, according to a new UNESCO-backed report.

Are apps like Duolingo enough to learn Greek, or do we need a tutor?

For many people who want to learn conversational Greek, an app, can be a very useful addition to your program.

You May Also Like

‘Happiest queue in Belmore’: Hundreds visit Sydney’s first drive through vaccination clinic

Hundreds of people visited Sydney’s first drive through vaccination clinic at Belmore Sports Ground over the weekend.

Greece and Australia welcome Gaza ceasefire 

Greece and Australia have officially welcomed the Gaza ceasefire and the release of 50 hostages.

Devastating fire engulfs Greek Orthodox Church of St Andrew in Adelaide

A devastating fire has torn through the Greek Orthodox Church of St Andrew Noarlunga in Christie Downs, Adelaide on Saturday March 30.