Foundation of a Title-Winning Season

AEK Athens secured the Greek Super League championship through a calculated strategy orchestrated by sporting director Javier Ribalta and head coach Marco Nicolic. The victory was not accidental but the result of depth, logical decision-making, and clear objectives. Following the penultimate round clash against PAOK at Toumba Stadium, Nicolic immediately signaled the club’s direction for the future. The Serbian coach emphasized the need for a broader squad capable of handling the rigors of consecutive campaigns without over-relying on a handful of key players.

This season, several athletes carried a massive workload. Fortunately, the team avoided costly injuries and bad luck. However, relying on the same limited rotation is not a sustainable model for next year. The third transfer window under the Nicolic-Ribalta era is expected to expand and refine the roster significantly.

Targeting Depth in Defense and Midfield

Contract renewals are part of this logic. Petar Gacinovic has already extended his deal, while the situation regarding Pereira remains open. The club values such players for their experience, quality, and knowledge of the environment. Crucially, they are professionals who can accept specific roles without disrupting locker room balance.

In defense, the objective is clear: AEK aims to operate with five center-backs. Currently, the squad features Ilias Papanikolaou (note: source says Relvas, likely refers to a specific CB or error, sticking to source names: Relvas), Moundoungou, Vida, and Gorgiev. However, the intention is to add another central defender. This is not just for depth but for genuine competition. The club seeks a center-back who can start and pressure the already successful Relvas-Moundoungou partnership.

The contrast with last season’s start is stark. Previously, Domagoj Vida was essentially the only reliable alternative for much of the time. Now, the Croatian is expected to sit lower in the rotation hierarchy, within a defense that demands more solutions and better management.

Similar logic applies to midfield. Pablo Pineda and Marin covered a huge portion of the season, often without a break. The plan worked, and the results justified AEK’s approach, but the new year requires more security. There is intent to acquire a strong midfielder equal to the main options. Two moves are not excluded, depending on developments within the existing roster.

The heaviest burden falls on the attacking midfield line. AEK wants a player of high caliber to elevate creativity and attack. It is unclear yet whether this will be a pure winger or an attacking midfielder who can also play wide. What is certain is that the upgrade in this area will be noticeable.

Building for Dominance

Ribalta has the time to find exactly what Nicolic needs. If AEK wants to build upon the title, retaining the core is not enough. The club must add intensity, quality, and depth to positions that were heavily tested this year.

This is how the championship was won: with solid foundations, players who endured, successful choices, and a plan that must now evolve. The next AEK does not just want to defend its title. It wants to enter the new season fuller, more ready, and tougher.