Cedi Osman explains departure from Panathinaikos and move to PAOK

Turkish forward Cedi Osman has officially joined PAOK, marking a significant career shift after departing Panathinaikos. Speaking to media outlets in mid-September 2026, Osman clarified that his exit from the Athenian club stemmed from a mutual realization that both parties intended to move in different directions. While he emphasized that there is no animosity toward Panathinaikos, its fans, or club president Dimitris Giannakopoulos, he noted a lack of communication during the summer that hindered a potential contract renewal.

Osman chose to join PAOK following persuasive discussions with coach Andrea Trinchieri and the club's leadership. The player expressed that the primary factors behind his decision were the team's ambition to qualify for the EuroLeague and the opportunity to assume a leadership role with greater creative freedom on the court. He emphasized that it is too early to set definitive seasonal goals, opting instead to focus on a game-by-game progression. Osman also reflected on his recent performance, specifically referencing a high-pressure play involving Nick Calathes and teammate Marcus during a game against Partizan.