Dissecting the Greek outfit’s playstyle under Jose Luis Mendilibar and some of their most influential players that will face Arsenal in GW2 of the Champions League
Arsenal host Olympiacos at the Emirates in GW2 as they look to continue their winning streak early into the competition. The away side are looking to open their account in this edition of the competition as their opening clash resulted in a draw
Olympiacos is one of the most historic clubs in world football, built on the ancient identity of the Olympic Games. They also hold the title of being the most successful club in Greek football history, having won 48 titles in their past. Their boisterous fanbase, adds to their identity
In the 2023-24 season, Olympiacos became the only Greek football club to have won a major European trophy after clinching the UEFA Conference League. This resulting in them becoming the first club in decades outside the traditional top 5 leagues to win a European trophy
Manager Analysis
Managed by Jose Luis Mendilibar, the Spanish coach sets up in a 4-2-3-1 that focuses on wing play, early crosses into the box and Hugh pressing offensively. Defensively, they comply to a compact and solid defence, re tracking to a mid block.
Mendilibar is celebrated amongst the Greek crowd, not only for being under the helm while lifting the Conference League, but also as yo how he transformed them in their dullest phase. “He didn’t just bring the fireworks, he brought in the fire”, according to the words of ULTRAS
In possession, watching their side felt simple; no overcomplicated actions in release of passes or reliance on positional play. Simple and effective ball to feet actions of direct passes, constant verticality from defence and plenty of crosses.
Attacks generally are started by their deep build up, including the GK and 2 CBs being animated with their feet. They try to force passes wide to the wingers and encapsulate the attack through constant crosses to their target man, El Kaabi whose presence is undeniable.
However, they are prone to high turnovers with their approach in possession of directness and committed bodies. At times, it can see them defensively open, making them chasing their own long balls and be sexond favourites for recoveries
Out of Possession, especially against stronger teams in the UCL, he wants to see his team press higher. He likes to see opposition more so on the flanks to make it easier to win the ball. The midfield pivot is crucial to ball recovery.
To conclude, he likes to keep his players to not overthink decisions, and scrutinise actions on the pitch. They are fluid to take on players, commit risks and also chase down players defensively – an identity he imposed at Sevilla when they won the Europa League in 22/23.
Key Players
Ayoub El Kaabi – Morocco
32 | CF | 6’0
El Kaabi’s technical ability and physical presence make him a valuable asset in the Greek’s sides utility in front of goal. A relentless runner, solid finisher and experienced in terms of reading the game to effectively have a say.
Christos Mouzakitis – Greece
18 | DM | 5’10
The Greek YPOS for last season is one of the brightest talents in world football, yet undiscovered. Two footed creative passer of the ball with a good eye for shots, with strong agility that helps his close control and push his body into tackles
Diogo Nascimento – Portugal
22 | CM/DM | 5’5
Earning a move post his impressive spell at the U21 EURO, the Portuguese is an exceptional talent. Elite controller genes, killer eye for a pass, smart body orientation and a brilliant turning radius. Might not start but a good option off the bench
Daniel Podence – Portugal
29 | LW/AM | 5’5
The former Wolves player, who is now on loan in Greece, still has his individual brilliance as an attacker. Silky dribbler who likes to skilfully exploit defences with a drop of a body/feints and play cutbacks/crosses for chance creation
Lorenzo Pirola – Italy
23 | CB | 6’1
The Italian is their reliable man in defence, who’s the safer packet to read opposition play and effectively mitigate chances. Prefers guarding the defence as the last man, winning aerial duels and smartly reading the chances into the box.
Shoutout goes out to Mehdi Taremi, Panagiotis Retsos, Gelson Martins and Chiquinho who are some of their more experienced players in the side who can do their part when called upon.