Former Serbian Coach Željko Obradovičius Returns to Panathinaikos
Željko Obradovičius, a prominent basketball coach, has agreed to return to Panathinaikos, the Greek basketball club, after securing a reported 10 million euro salary, according to multiple sources. The decision marks a significant development in the club’s strategy ahead of the upcoming season, as reported by BasketNews.lt, Lrytas, Delfi, Krepsinis.net, and Sportas.lt.
Obradovičius, who previously coached Panathinaikos from 2016 to 2020, has been linked to the team’s management since early 2026, with negotiations intensifying in the final months of the 2025–2026 season. The 57-year-old coach, known for his tactical acumen and leadership, is set to take charge of the team’s roster, which includes high-profile players such as Giannis Antetokounmpo and Nikola Kalabić.
The reported 10 million euro annual salary, confirmed by multiple outlets including Delfi and Sportas.lt, positions Obradovičius among the highest-paid coaches in European basketball. This move follows Panathinaikos’ efforts to strengthen its competitive edge in the Greek Basket League and the EuroLeague, where the club has struggled to maintain consistency in recent years.
Sources close to the club indicated that Obradovičius’ return was influenced by his proven track record with Panathinaikos, including a Greek League championship win in 2017. “His experience and ability to develop young talent align with our long-term goals,” said a Panathinaikos spokesperson in a statement published by Krepsinis.net.
The decision also comes amid broader restructuring efforts at the club, which has faced financial challenges and leadership instability in the past decade. Obradovičius’ appointment is expected to provide stability, though his ability to deliver immediate results remains a key focus for fans and stakeholders.
While the exact terms of the contract have not been publicly disclosed, the salary figure reported by Lrytas and Delfi reflects the growing financial stakes in European basketball. This aligns with trends observed in other top-tier leagues, where elite coaches command multi-million-euro deals.
Obradovičius’ return has drawn mixed reactions from fans and analysts. Some praised the move as a strategic step to rebuild the team’s competitive identity, while others questioned the financial implications of such a high salary. “It’s a bold decision, but it depends on whether the results justify the investment,” said a sports analyst quoted in BasketNews.lt.
The coach’s previous tenure at Panathinaikos saw the team reach the EuroLeague final in 2018, though it ultimately fell to Real Madrid. His return could signal a shift in the club’s approach, emphasizing both short-term success and sustainable development.
Panathinaikos’ management