Apostolos Makridis has officially stepped into his new role as the technical director of Anorthosis Famagusta, a position he confirmed during an appearance on the show "Goal N’ Roll." Although the formal announcement from the club is still pending, Makridis revealed that he has signed a three-year contract, marking a significant transition in his career as he departs from his previous position at Ethnikos Achna.
In his opening remarks, Makridis expressed a mix of excitement and responsibility about this new chapter, stating, "My title is Athletic Director. I have signed with Anorthosis and ended my collaboration with Ethnikos. This happened yesterday. It’s a great vindication and a big responsibility. I started this journey 30 years ago. I’ve had the fortune to work as a coach in all categories. For the last two years, I’ve been working in a different role. I had other offers; I did a good job."
As he embarks on this journey, Makridis acknowledged the challenges ahead, particularly in terms of financial constraints. He noted, "It will be difficult in the first years due to economic reasons. I saw at Anorthosis’ offices the anxiety to solve problems. There is selfless love for the club. It’s nothing like dealing with agents. I will start tentatively on Tuesday. I have some data in hand. I know what needs to be done."
Discussing the budget for the upcoming season, he stated, "We are playing yes to a number. It will be reduced. There is also the embargo. I cannot disclose numbers publicly. The fans who love the team will need to support it when season tickets are released, to lift the team from the embargo. The budget needs to be determined. Anorthosis is its people. I’ve played in all stadiums. I know what ‘Antonis Papadopoulos’ means."
On the subject of player transfers, Makridis mentioned his intentions to scout talent from Argentina, emphasizing that he won't be bringing players from Ethnikos. He remarked, "No. I believe there are millions of free players. We will pursue players from Argentina. For Ethnikos, I was looking at players who were in the second category. For Anorthosis, I will look at first-category players. I am networked everywhere."
As for the team's playing style and the new coach, Makridis stated, "I have in mind how Anorthosis will play. The choice of coach will play a role in whether they can meet the plan. There is no plan for Bandia. Speculation harms the team and me. It’s too early to talk about a coach. We haven’t even started yet. I believe there is no issue with Bandia at Anorthosis."
He also addressed the role of Antonio Prieto, indicating that Prieto will serve as his scout. "He will be my subordinate, he will be a scout. I spoke to him, I told him that I want us to work together. I won’t disclose what he told me; everything will go well. We set an organizational chart and are waiting for it to be followed," Makridis explained.
In discussing his responsibilities, he stressed the importance of commitment, saying, "You must be available 25 hours a day. It’s a living organism. Management and the team environment play a role. Everyone will have their role. My job is not just to bring quality players who can wear the Anorthosis jersey, but also to ensure everyone knows their role. There needs to be balance. I need to resolve situations, the coach needs to have the best psychology, and I need to protect him. He should feel like a king. I don’t miss training; I also evaluate the players. I won’t interfere with the coach’s work; heaven forbid."
When asked how Anorthosis will compete against teams with larger budgets, Makridis remained optimistic, stating, "I am optimistic, that’s why I went to Anorthosis. If I wasn’t confident in my thoughts, I wouldn’t have proceeded. I know what I want to do. I know what I will face. I know that some may doubt. I want the support of the fans."
As Makridis prepares to take the reins at Anorthosis, the club’s supporters are undoubtedly eager to see how his vision will unfold. With a focus on strategic player acquisitions and fostering a strong team environment, the upcoming season promises to be a pivotal one for Anorthosis as they aim to rise from the challenges posed by financial restraints and competitive pressures.
