Zazopoulos: “Unaltered winning spirit”
He groomed many of the young talents who made the step to the senior side and won the Super League last season with the U17s. Angelos Zazopoulos returned to the team he was coaching for two years. In order to guide them safely through a very crucial age group. PAOK U15 coach tackles paokfc.gr’s seven questions:
How difficult is it to maintain the focus of a team who have practically qualified for the Super League final from matchday 8?
“It’s very tough. Especially because PAOK are head and shoulders above the rest of the league. Yes, we are undefeated, we score a lot, but our performance leaves much to be desired in some games. We try to maintain our concentration through some tough friendly encounters. Our participation in European tournaments is very important, but they usually take place towards the end of the season”.
Is there a big difference between U15 and U17 leagues?
“Of course there is. When U15s and U17s play on the same day, we usually watch the U17 game after we are done with ours. The guys get to realize how difficult the transition to the next age group is. Let’s not forget that there is a U16 league in Europe”.
What is your objective for the season?
“To win the league, of course. As far as I am concerned, I also want my players to improve and progress”.
How do you feel about the first half of the season?
“I am happy about it. And especially satisfied with my players’ attitude and will to work”.
How did your old players greet you?
“Fine, very well. I feel lucky to be among them”.
Did you notice any changes?
“No, I can’t say I found them changed, apart from the fact that they have grown of course. Their winning spirit remains unaltered”.
Do you believe that this group of players were perhaps disoriented by the intense coverage of their accomplishments and their undefeated streak in Europe?
“Overexposure is never good anyway. But I don’t believe that it was a source of problems. In my opinion, there is a combination of various factors and parameters. A player must be technically impeccable by the age of 14, improve his body functions (speed, strength) by 17 and then acquire tactical nous by 21, to be ready for men football. I have a pretty good impression about my players’ technical skills. Our work now lies on getting them motivated –and that can happen only through long hours of work”.
A wish for the upcoming year:
“More smiling faces in Greece and better living conditions for everyone”.
