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Football London
Football London
Sport
Chris Wheatley

Former Arsenal defender Sokratis Papastathopoulos signs for Olympiacos

Former Arsenal defender Sokratis Papastathopoulos has joined Greek giants Olympiacos on a free transfer.

The Greek defender had his contract with the Gunners cancelled by mutual consent last week in order to give him freedom to negotiate with potential suitors.

Sokratis, 32, attracted interest from clubs in Italy and Spain including Genoa but it is Olympiacos who have had long-standing interest in the defender.

He joined the Gunners from Borussia Dortmund in July 2018 and was set to be out of contract in June.

Sokratis made 69 appearances for Arsenal, helping the team reach the final of the Europa League in 2019 and win the FA Cup last summer.

As football.london exclusively reported, the 32-year-old centre-back was desperate to leave in order to find some game time after slipping down the pecking order at the club.

“One of the most enjoyable times in my career ended today,” he said after leaving Arsenal.

“It has been an honour to wear the Arsenal shirt and I want to thank all the coaches, team-mates, staff and fans around the world for the love and respect they have given me.

“I gave everything for Arsenal and Arsenal also gave me a lot. I wish you all the best health and success always. Thank you.”

Sokratis played in the EFL Trophy in December and turned out for Arsenal’s under-23s a few times at the end of 2020.

He's signed a two-and-a-half year contract with Olympiacos and is expected to earn €1.5million a year, including bonuses.

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