One of the most renowned specialists in world volleyball – Andrea Anastasi – will be the new head coach of Panathinaikos. The news of the appointment was reported byvolleynews.gr, and with it officially ends Dimitris Andreopoulos' 12-year period at the helm of the 'Greens'.
An interesting detail about the Italian is that months ago he received an offer from their big rival Olympiacos. Anastasi, however, refused, as he did not want to take Andrea Gardini's place. The two worked together in the Polish national team, where Gardini was his assistant, and their relationship grew into a strong friendship. This proved decisive for his refusal then.
Now, however, he accepts the challenge to take over Panathinaikos.
Anastasi has a serious international biography. With Italy, he won a world and European title in the late 90s. Later, he led Spain to European gold in 2007, and at the helm of Poland, he reached medals in the World League and major forums, establishing the team among the leading forces in the world.
Interestingly, Bulgaria has repeatedly proven to be a serious obstacle for his Polish team.
Back in 2013, in the World League, the 'tricolors' defeated Poland in Varna with a 3:0 (25:21, 25:21, 25:21) victory and practically deprived the 'Polish Team' of a chance to qualify for the finals in Argentina. After the match, Anastasi openly expressed his disappointment that his team missed the Final Six and shifted focus to the upcoming European Championship.
A few months later, an even heavier blow came. At Euro 2013 in Gdańsk, Bulgaria made a phenomenal comeback against hosts Poland and won 3:2 (22:25, 22:25, 25:20, 26:24, 18:16). Tsvetan Sokolov played an exceptional match with 35 points, and after the game, Anastasi himself admitted: 'The difference was one player – Tsvetan Sokolov'.
Poland's elimination from the championship led to serious tension, and shortly thereafter, the Italian specialist was relieved of his post.
His appointment to Panathinaikos is a clear signal of high ambitions. The Greek grandee is betting on a coach with proven international authority and experience in managing teams under pressure. It remains to be seen whether Anastasi will manage to open a new winning cycle for the 'Greens' both on the domestic scene and in Europe.
photos:cev.eu
