A straight road is the quickest and easiest way to reach one’s destination. Deviations however can often prove useful, as they help us reach said destination readier and full of experience. Lazaros Lambrou has proved from an early age that he believes in himself and is not afraid to take risks or choose the difficult path towards his objective.

He left Panathinaikos in search of the AS Roma dream, but wasn’t disappointed to land at Iraklis –because that led him to PAOK. His growth as a footballer took him at Nea Smyrni on loan. He didn’t feel he was taking steps back, instead he saw it as an opportunity to gather experience.

After experiencing Super League action, he was clear about his next move: PAOK or abroad, to test his worth. He moved to the Netherlands, signing for Fortuna Sittard. He scored 8 goals and served 10 assists in 27 matches. He collected various distinctions and awards, attracting interest from various European sides.

Lambrou has done well throughout his loan spells. Based on his undeniable talent and efficiency, the young Greek international earned his ticket back to Toumba and a new contract until 2023.

His profile

He inherited the sports gene from his parents, both of them being physical condition trainers. He started playing football at the age of 5 and joined the AEK Pontii Katerini academies. He soon stood out for his technical skills and caught the eye of the big clubs’ scouts.

Thanks to their cooperation with AEK Pontii Katerini, Panathinaikos managed to lure him to their academies and Lambrou moved to Athens at the age of 13. He was a leader in all Panathinaikos teams he played for. Since 2014 he has been a member of the youth national teams.

In the summer of 2016, the young player came very close to signing for AS Roma, but the Italian side’s failure to qualify for the UEFA Champions League group stage cancelled this plan.

Iraklis offered him a contract and the opportunity for his first professional matches in Greek football. In 13 games with the Thessaloniki outfit, he scored one goal and provided one assist.

In December of 2016, PAOK signed Lambrou and shipped him on loan to Panionios. The player remained at Nea Smyrni for 18 months, conjuring up 8 goals and 5 assists in 45 encounters.

He returned to the “Double-Headed Eagle” last summer. After completing preseason training with PAOK, he joined Fortuna Sittard on loan. The rest is history…