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Punjab FC have roped in Panagiotis Dilmperis as their new head coach for the upcoming Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 season, the club announced on Saturday, June 29.
The 49-year-old Greek tactician, who most recently helmed A.E. Ermionida FC, brings an extensive 15-year coaching experience to the Shers. He, previously, served at Iraklis Larisas FC, Rochester NY FC, and Panserraikos FC.
Before his coaching career, Dilmperis had a distinguished 17-year tenure as a goalkeeper, plying his trade in Greek clubs such as Iraklis FC and Agrotikos Asteras.
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Expressing his elation on joining the new project, Dilmperis said in a club statement:
“I am really excited to start a new journey in India with Punjab FC. It is a great challenge and I look forward to helping the team achieve its objectives. I am completely aligned with the club’s vision and can’t wait to start the new season in the new country.”
Meanwhile, alongside Dilmperis, Konstantinos Katsaras will join as his assistant coach, and Papaioannou Ioannis as the strength and conditioning coach.
"We are confident in his abilities" - Nikolaos Topoliatis on Punjab FC's new head coach
Punjab FC made a remarkable start to their stint in the top-tier league last season, finishing eighth in the ISL ahead of seasoned heavyweights like East Bengal and Bengaluru FC. However, in the summer break, the Shers decided to for a major shake-up with their former coach Staikos Vergetis and their entire overseas departing.
Now, with the addition of the new head coach, Punjab have set the wheels of their renovation in motion. Meanwhile, Nikolaos Topoliatis, Football Director of Punjab FC, expressed confidence in the new coaching team, stating:
“We are happy to welcome Dilmperis as the club’s head coach. We are confident in his abilities to help the team compete for all three trophies and develop our young players to help them achieve their maximum potential.”
Topoliatis and Punjab have the habit of unearthing quality coaches with rather unassuming profiles, as with Staikos. Hence, although Dilmperis's resume isn't as glittering at first glance as others, very few would dare to write him off.
