Top-tier league club takes on former Lions professional, after Braunschweig rejected him.
Veteran Defender Jannis Nikolaou Moves to SC St. Tönis
After five years with Eintracht Braunschweig, where he rose from a regular player to captain, Jannis Nikolaou is set to embark on a new chapter in his career with SC St. Tönis[1]. The move sees Nikolaou joining a club in the Niederrhein-Oberliga, an amateur league in Germany[2].
Hailing from Bonn and with Greek heritage, Nikolaou will be bringing his immense experience to the North Rhine-Westphalia-based club, located in Tönisvorst[3]. Holger Krebs, sporting director of SC St. Tönis, expressed his optimism about Nikolaou's impact: "Jannis will bring even more quality to our squad and defense," he said[4].
Krebs also noted that Nikolaou is in top shape and is expected to provide stability in midfield[4]. This move could potentially signal the beginning of a retirement for Nikolaou in football, given his involvement in real estate[1].
Eintracht Braunschweig, meanwhile, has reacted to Nikolaou's departure by signing Louis Breunig to strengthen their central defense[5]. Both Frederik Jäkel and Lukas Frenkert can also play in this position[6]. After securing their place in the league last season, the team will be looking to build on their success with their new additions.
Nikolaou, who resides in Krefeld-Forstwald, will find it convenient to travel to his new training place, which is just a short bike ride away[1]. The 35-year-old defender has spent a significant portion of his career at Eintracht Braunschweig and will be missed by the club and its fans.
[1] [Source 1] [2] [Source 2] [3] [Source 3] [4] [Source 4] [5] [Source 5] [6] [Source 6]
Despite his retirement from professional real estate, Jannis Nikolaou still holds a passion for the game, evident as he joins SC St. Tönis, a club participating in European-leagues like the Niederrhein-Oberliga. As a seasoned defender, he will undoubtedly bring solidity and sporting experience to his new club, particularly in football, a discipline he continues to excel in.
