Panathinaikos coach Nistrop outlines lineup and reacts to 4-1 friendly loss before PAOK clash

Greek club Panathinaikos is turning its focus to the upcoming European fixtures against PAOK, with coach Giacomo Nistrop evaluating the squad ahead of the match. After a 4-1 defeat to Rapid Wien in a pre‑season friendly, Nistrop addressed the press, noting the loss as a useful lesson and confirming the team’s need to improve in the final eight days before the PAOK away game.

He explained that the defensive line‑up remains unsettled, with questions around the centre‑back partner for Stefan de Vries and the potential inclusion of Rikk Van Drogen, who has been training with the side. Injuries to players such as Ingason and Kalambri are also affecting selections. On the midfield, Amadou Camara leads the central positions while Adam Cherin and Pedro Chirivaggia compete for adjacent roles. Nistrop said he already has a clear picture of the starting eleven for the PAOK tie.

The club’s preparations also involve assessing other candidates for forward and wing positions, with several players showing form in training. The coach emphasized that the recent defeat does not diminish the overall preparation he believes the team has achieved.