Spanoulis takes over Aris Thessaloniki, aims for lasting foundation, not a ‘firework’

A hero's welcome

On Sunday evening, more than 3,000 Aris fans packed the area outside Macedonia Airport's customs exit to greet their new coach. Vassilis Spanoulis arrived on a flight from Athens at 19:11, accompanied by club officials including general manager Nikos Zisis. The crowd erupted in chants, songs, and smoke bombs as the 44-year-old emerged, raising a clenched fist and wearing an Aris scarf placed around his neck by supporters.

The press conference: a new chapter

The formal presentation took place on Monday at noon at the Alexandreio Melathron. Spanoulis shared the stage with owner Richard Siao and Zisis in front of an enthusiastic audience. The coach spoke of his excitement at joining a club with deep basketball roots, one that "brought the sport into Greek homes and inspired generations."

“It was a very nice day. We faced many difficulties, but in the end we managed to bring Vassilis Spanoulis. Step by step we want to build the culture.”

Philosophy of patience

Spanoulis made clear he would avoid rash promises. He stressed the need for discipline, focus, and consistency, dismissing the idea of a short-lived burst.

“I want to build a team that will not be a firework. It will have solid foundations and make the fans of Aris proud.”

He also expressed awe rather than pressure at coaching where legends like Nikos Galis and Panagiotis Giannakis once played, calling their presence a motivation.

Ambitious goals

Zisis, who oversaw the negotiations, described the initial chance of landing Spanoulis as "0.0001%," a figure that grew through countless phone calls and a shared vision. Siao noted that the probability had crept from 5% to 10% to 20% before the agreement. Both credited the fans' fervent support, which Zisis called "unprecedented."

“When you believe and love what you do, nothing is impossible. The way he handles every challenge will bring us to the highest level in Europe.”

The three-year deal is intended to return Aris to domestic and continental prominence, with the clear message that the project, however ambitious, will be measured and methodical.