AEK: Recharging batteries, opening up rotation and looking for reinforcements

The break for national team duties comes at a favorable time for AEK, which expended a lot of energy recently, competing in three competitions.

Marko Nikolic gave his players a four-day break, with training scheduled to resume on Friday. On Monday, a friendly match against AE Lemesou will follow, so that the Union can maintain its competitive rhythm ahead of the away match against Kalamata in Nikaia.

Eleven absentees due to national teams

The Serbian coach will not have eleven international players at his disposal until the middle of next week. These are Rota, Pilios, Mayer, Varga, Vitalis, Jovic, Koita, Marin, Kairinen, Kaloskame and Alexiou.

Despite the absences, the break period offers the remaining players the opportunity to work on areas that need improvement, as well as to get the necessary rest before the demanding schedule that follows.

More options in rotation

After the resumption of competitive obligations, Nikolic is expected to open up the rotation more, as AEK has successive and difficult games ahead until the end of 2026.

Strakosha has overcome his injury and is expected to return to the plans, while Ariaga, Kairinen and Koutesa are vying for more playing time. In fact, at least one of the first two is expected to play against Kalamata, due to Marin's suspension. Other players may also get opportunities, not only in the Cup game against Asteras Tripolis on December 2.

Winter reinforcements also in the plan

At the same time, AEK has started to draw up its plans for the winter transfer period. The acquisition of a right-back is a top priority, in order to fill the gap that remained in the squad from the summer.

However, it is not ruled out that the Union will also move for an attacking midfielder, while the possibility of strengthening the center of the defense will also be examined, depending on the available options and the needs that will arise.