Footballer Takis Gkonia remembered for his talent and potential

Takis Lemonis, a seasoned football coach and former teammate, has paid tribute to the late Takis Gkonia, remembering his exceptional talent and promising beginnings. Lemonis recalled Gkonia's arrival at Levadiakos in the summer of 1988, noting that even at 17, Gkonia possessed a remarkable presence on the field.

"He had the air of an accomplished player," Lemonis stated, emphasizing Gkonia's innate confidence and skill. "As if he was trying to say with his movements, 'I am here.' This is something truly exceptional players have. That's what Gkonia was."

While Gkonia had a good career, Lemonis believes he could have achieved even greater heights. "He had great talent as a footballer," Lemonis reflected. "He didn't show it to its full extent. Perhaps he wronged himself, perhaps he was unlucky." Lemonis also mentioned a past incident where Gkonia survived a serious car accident, recalling visiting him in the hospital and speaking with him again about eight months prior to his death. "It's a shame. A shame. A shame," Lemonis concluded, expressing deep regret over Gkonia's premature passing.