Ergin Ataman departs Panathinaikos amid speculation over Zeljko Obradovic return

Panathinaikos and coach Ergin Ataman officially ended their three-year partnership on June 15, 2026, following a mutual agreement. During his tenure, Ataman secured the 2024 EuroLeague title and the Greek championship. Following the vacancy, reports emerged that the club is pursuing legendary coach Zeljko Obradovic. Obradovic is expected to arrive in Athens on June 19, 2026, for critical negotiations regarding a potential return to the team he coached from 1999 to 2012. Serbian media suggest Panathinaikos owner Dimitris Giannakopoulos has offered a three-year contract exceeding 5 million euros, potentially making Obradovic the highest-paid coach in Europe. While some sources claim the deal is nearing completion, others clarify that official terms have not been finalized. Obradovic has stated he will make a definitive decision on his future by the end of June.