Panathinaikos enters a new phase with Baldini on the horizon
Panathinaikos is reportedly edging closer to a significant restructuring of its football operations, with Franco Baldini emerging as a central figure in the plans. The development comes as owner Yannis Alafouzos signals a broader modernization of the club beyond the recent coaching changes, where Rui Vitoria’s tenure concluded and the team’s leadership shifted to interim administrator Christos Kontis.
The context: a club aiming for systemic change
Behind the headlines is a deliberate strategy to reconfigure Panathinaikos’ football organogram. The talks reportedly include a new advisory role on football matters, with Baldini’s name repeatedly cited as a potential cornerstone. Sources indicate that, after exploratory discussions, the sides have found common ground, raising the possibility of a formal agreement in the near term.
Franco Baldini: a heavyweight name in European football
At 64, Baldini carries one of the most recognizable résumés in the sport. His career spans leadership roles at AS Roma, Real Madrid, the England national team, and Tottenham Hotspur. Born near Reggio nell’Emilia, Baldini spent about six years as Roma’s director of football (1999-2005). He then moved to Real Madrid (2006-2007) and to the England setup (2007-2011) in similar roles, before returning to Roma as CEO (2011-2013). His subsequent stints include a tenure as technical director at Tottenham (2013-2015) and, during a later period with Roma, involvement that extended to the coaching sphere (2016-2018).
Panathinaikos’ interest in Baldini centers on leveraging his vast European experience to recalibrate the club’s football operations—especially in scouting, player pathways, and long-term transfer policy. If the agreement proceeds, Baldini would likely function as a senior adviser on football matters, shaping strategy rather than occupying a day-to-day coaching post.
Could Baldini also influence coach appointments?
Italian press and Greek sources alike have highlighted a potential link between Baldini and Daniele De Rossi, a high-profile figure from Baldini’s circle who has been explored as a prospective coach for Panathinaikos should Baldini take up the role. De Rossi’s background with Roma and his coaching experience add to the speculation that the club is considering a bold pathway that marries elite European know-how with Greek football ambitions. While no final decision has been announced, the idea underscores the scale of the project and the expectations surrounding Baldini’s potential influence on the coaching recruitment strategy.
What this could mean for Panathinaikos
If realized, the Baldini agreement would mark a turning point for Panathinaikos. Beyond a single appointment, the move hints at a broader plan to professionalize the club’s football operations—from scouting networks and analytics to player development and international linkages. The goal would be to raise the club’s competitiveness in domestic competitions and to re-establish a sustainable model for attracting and integrating talent. In the short term, managers, technical staff, and recruitment practices could undergo a period of adjustment as the new leadership aligns on a shared vision.
Next steps and a note of caution
As of now, there is no official confirmation from Panathinaikos or Baldini. The talks are described as promising, but formalities remain, including contractual details, the scope of Baldini’s remit, and the timeline for any potential coaching collaboration with De Rossi or other targets. Alafouzos’ broader strategy for the club appears clear—a willingness to implement profound changes to unlock long-term success. Fans and stakeholders will be watching closely to see whether Baldini’s appointment materializes and what it signals about Panathinaikos’ path forward.
