David Carmo returns to Olympiacos for third stint as club ramps up summer signings

Arrival in Athens

David Carmo landed at Athens International Airport at 05:10 on Monday morning, arriving via Lisbon. The 26-year-old Angolan international is set to finalise a permanent transfer to Olympiacos, with only formalities remaining. He was greeted by press representatives before heading to complete the necessary procedures.

Third stint at the club

Carmo first joined Olympiacos on loan from Porto in January 2024 and became a key figure in the club's UEFA Europa Conference League triumph that season. After a brief return to Porto and a €11 million sale to Nottingham Forest, he was loaned back to Olympiacos for the 2024–25 campaign, winning the domestic double. Last season he spent on loan at Real Oviedo, making 22 appearances and scoring once. Across his previous 18 months in Piraeus, he recorded 54 appearances and one goal.

Mendilibar's influence

Head coach José Luis Mendilibar played a decisive role in the defender's return. The Basque manager personally expressed his desire to reintegrate Carmo into the squad for the upcoming season. Carmo is familiar with the environment and is determined to lead the back line again.

Broader transfer activity

Olympiacos is also closing in on other signings. Petar Stanić is expected to join from Ludogorets for an estimated €7–8 million, while Joel Roca of Girona is set to cost around €4.5 million. Balša Popović is already in Athens undergoing medical tests, and the club has secured 22-year-old Tsompanidis from Panserraikos.

Pre-season begins

Monday also marks the start of Olympiacos's summer pre-season, with the first squad gathering taking place. Barring any last-minute changes, Stanić and Roca are expected to follow Carmo's path shortly, giving Mendilibar as many options as possible from the early days of preparation.