Panagiotis Vlachodimos: ‘The Greek Cristiano Ronaldo’

Skoda Xanthi are not renowned for their big name players or first class scouting system. George Boateng and Tomasz Radzinski are probably the most established names to have played for Marinos Ouzounidis’ side in recent years. That could soon change, however.

20-year-old German-born Greek under-21 international Panagiotis Vlachodimos is a product of the prestigious Stuttgart academy, where the likes of Sami Khedira, Serdar Tasci and Mario Gomez all plied their trade as youngsters.

Since being brought to Xanthi last summer on a free transfer, Vlachodimos has lit up the Super League with his quick footwork, terrific pace and clinical finishing – the supporters have even dubbed him ‘The Greek Cristiano Ronaldo’ after his debut in September away to PAOK.

Rising star

Vlachodimos has made significant inroads at Xanthi so far this season, recently scoring a superb solo effort – which later turned out to be the winner – against table-toppers Olympiakos. Following that goal and other stand-out performances, it has come to no surprise that several European sides have scouted the hot prospect.

Many skilful or ‘flash’ players lack the intelligence to know exactly what they’re going to do with the ball. Vlachodimos doesn’t. His ingenuity has been a stand-out feature of his play this season, scoring big goals and creating assists for his team-mates.

While Greece lick their lips at another exciting youngster working their way up the ranks, one question will be asked over and over again – does he have the mentality and consistency to succeed?

From what he’s shown so far, Vlachodimos certainly has the quality and it shouldn’t be long before ‘The Greek Cristiano Ronaldo’ is a regular name on the Greek national side’s team sheet. Only time will tell.

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