Takis Lemonis (foto: Posnetek zaslona)
Takis Lemonis returns to coaching after eight years, taking charge of Radnički Niš and insisting he joined at the perfect time to revive the team’s season.
Radnički Niš have officially unveiled their new head coach, Greek tactician Takis Lemonis, marking his return to management after an eight-year absence from the dugout.
Lemonis, once in charge of Olympiacos during an era featuring stars such as Rivaldo, Christian Karembeu, Marko Marin, Predrag Đorđević and Darko Kovačević, was introduced with a smile — and a symbolic moment.
“My mother called me last night to ask: what are Radnički’s colours?” he said while posing for photographers with the club scarf.
‘Football is my life. I believe I arrived at the right moment’
The 64-year-old explained why he accepted Radnički’s offer and what convinced him to return to work after such a long break.
“Football is my life. The people at the club found the right way to attract me. I know the situation, I’ve watched a lot of matches — this is a good challenge for me. If I didn’t believe we could do much better, I wouldn’t have come.”
Lemonis revealed he studied the team thoroughly before taking the job.
“I scouted a lot, I watched the last 12 matches very carefully. I believe we can achieve a lot, and results are always the best judge. I think I’ve come at the right moment — to get the maximum from the last two matches, then use the winter camp in Turkey to get to know the players and prepare properly for the rest of the season.”
Why an eight-year pause?
Lemonis also addressed the long break in his coaching career.
“I decided not to work in Greece anymore. After so many years at Olympiacos, it’s hard to work in another club there. There were opportunities abroad, but… in the end, it wasn’t the best decision for me. I live with that.”
Despite the pause, Lemonis insists his ambition has never faded.
“I feel a great hunger for victories. I’ve been like that since I was a child. It’s part of my character. I strongly believe I can help this team win.”
The experienced Greek coach — affectionately nicknamed “Sir Takis” — will make his debut in the SuperLiga against Novi Pazar in the 19th round.