Thomas Kędziora Reflects on His Journey and Ambitions at PAOK
Thomas Kędziora, a seasoned Polish defender with over 100 appearances for PAOK, recently shared insights in an interview with a Polish media outlet. He expressed a deep sense of fulfillment and belonging at the Thessaloniki-based club, highlighting both his personal growth and the team’s European aspirations under coach Razvan Lucescu.
Overcoming Challenges in European Competitions
Kędziora discussed PAOK’s recent hard-fought victory against Wolfsberger AC, emphasizing the Austrian side’s tactical discipline and counterattacking threat. “Wolfsberger proved to be a formidable opponent, well-organized defensively and dangerous on the break. We capitalized on our chance during extra time in Klagenfurt to secure the win and advance,” he explained. Looking ahead, he noted the upcoming playoff clash with Rijeka for a spot in the Europa League group stage, underscoring the team’s focus on this crucial hurdle.
High Expectations and Pressure at a Top Greek Club
When asked about the pressure to qualify for the Europa League, Kędziora acknowledged the weight of expectations at PAOK, one of Greece’s premier football institutions. “PAOK is a club with a rich history and passionate supporters. We aim to compete in the Europa League again, as it represents a higher competitive level than the Conference League. Our ambitions are realistic and aligned with the club’s stature,” he stated.
Adapting to Life and Football in Thessaloniki
Reflecting on his life off the pitch, Kędziora described his adaptation to Thessaloniki’s climate and culture. “The summer heat can be intense for someone from Poland, but I’ve adjusted to the training schedule, which includes morning and evening sessions. I genuinely enjoy living here,” he shared. Despite language barriers-he only knows a few Greek words-the team communicates primarily in English, fostering a cohesive environment.
Versatility and Leadership on the Field
With experience playing across various defensive roles, Kędziora emphasized his flexibility. “Whether in a back three or four, I’m comfortable and ready to perform wherever needed,” he said. As one of the team’s captains, he feels a strong connection to PAOK, having spent two and a half years with the club and accumulated significant playing time. “I know the squad well and take pride in representing a team that consistently challenges for titles and European competition,” he added.
Working Under Razvan Lucescu’s Guidance
Kędziora praised the leadership of coach Razvan Lucescu, son of the renowned Mircea Lucescu. “Together, we won the league title, and last season we finished third in a highly competitive Greek Super League. The top teams are closely matched, and often the difference comes down to small details,” he remarked, highlighting the balanced nature of the league.
Comparisons and Reflections on Past Experiences
Comparing PAOK to his former club Dynamo Kyiv, Kędziora noted the impact of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine on football there. “Due to the war, Dynamo’s level has been affected, and currently, PAOK operates at a higher standard,” he observed. He also touched on the progress of Polish clubs in European tournaments, mentioning Legia Warsaw’s challenges in Champions League qualifiers but acknowledging the steady growth of the Ekstraklasa and Poland’s rising UEFA ranking.
Polish Heritage and National Team Aspirations
Kędziora expressed pride in the Polish players who have made their mark at PAOK, such as Miroslav Šnajdř and Karol Świderski, and his ongoing connection with the national team setup. “I have 32 caps and hope to add many more. With a new national coach in place, I’m optimistic about my future with Poland,” he said, reflecting on past challenges with former coach Michał Probierz and looking forward to new opportunities.
Future Prospects and Commitment to PAOK
Despite interest from other clubs following a successful 2024/25 season, Kędziora confirmed no official offers have materialized. “My focus remains on PAOK and the upcoming matches. The future will unfold in due time,” he concluded, reaffirming his dedication to the club and its goals.