Panathinaikos: First training session with Neestrup focuses on ball circulation

Panathinaikos kicked off its pre-season preparations with its first training session under new coach Jacob Neestrup. The team gathered at the G. Kalafatis grounds, where Neestrup immediately began instilling his philosophy, emphasizing intensity, rhythm, and efficient ball circulation.

The training session commenced with a warm-up and stretching before moving into the main part of the practice. Neestrup's coaching staff focused on developing the team's attacking play, demanding precise positioning, quick thinking, and accurate passing from the players.

A 'rondo' drill, a common exercise involving quick ball exchanges in a confined space, was a key component of the session. This drill underscored Neestrup's early focus on rapid decision-making and maintaining possession under pressure.

The session concluded with further work on ball circulation and swift passing, encouraging continuous movement and immediate reactions. The goal was to build solid offensive plays and sustain a high tempo even when facing defensive pressure. Several academy players, including Lavdas, Geitonas, and Binjaris, joined the first team, while some players like Nebis followed specialized routines. Players such as Kyropoulos, Palmer-Brown, Ingason, and Bokos worked individually, and Dessers followed a specific program. International players Tetteh, Kontouris, Kyriakopoulos, Cerin, and Jagusić were absent, as were Bakasetas, Jedvaj, Sissoko, Pandovic, and Vilela, who had special leave. Pedro Chiriivella was also absent due to his wedding.