07.01.2026 19:01
The head coach Ergin Ataman, who is going through troubled days at Panathinaikos, made statements about his future, saying, "If we cannot win the EuroLeague or the Greek League by the end of the season, I will leave Athens."
In the 20th week of the EuroLeague, Panathinaikos lost 87-74 to Olimpia Milano, who they hosted in front of their fans. The Greek team, which lost for the second consecutive time, faced significant backlash from the stands towards the players and head coach Ergin Ataman at the end of the match.
STATEMENT FROM ERGIN ATAMAN
Experienced head coach Ergin Ataman made statements at a press conference before the match against Virtus Bologna, which will be played on Thursday. Ataman delivered a striking message regarding his future with the team.
''I WILL LEAVE ATHENS''
Ergin Ataman stated that he would resign if a championship is not achieved in the EuroLeague or the Greek League by the end of the season, saying, "I heard someone in the stands lost their trust in the team and the coach last night. Such things are normal; it's sports. The past is in the past. Therefore, we need to look ahead. I just want to say that I have a lot of faith in my players and this team. That's why I want to take on another significant challenge. As you know, I have one more year left on my contract. However, if we cannot win the EuroLeague or the Greek League by the end of the season, I will leave Athens. That's it."