Kings Kangwa ‘Honoured’ to join Panathinaikos

LUSAKA – Zambian international midfielder Kings Kangwa has officially completed a high-profile transfer to Greek Super League giants Panathinaikos, signing a four-year contract that will keep him at the Athens-based club until June 2030. The move, confirmed by Panathinaikos, sees the Chipolopolo star depart from Israeli club Hapoel Be’er Sheva after a successful tenure that culminated in him being named Israeli Footballer of the Year in 2026. This transfer is a significant milestone for Kangwa and further elevates the profile of Zambian football talent on the international stage. The deal, reportedly valued at a fixed €3.8 million, with potential to rise to €4.5 million through performance-related bonuses, underscores the rising market value of Zambian players in Europe. Kangwa's journey to Panathinaikos has seen him develop into a formidable central midfielder, known for his dynamic play and goal-scoring ability. His previous clubs include Zambian side Happy Hearts and Buildcon, Russian club Arsenal Tula, and Serbian giants Red Star Belgrade, where he also enjoyed significant success, including winning back-to-back Serbian league and cup doubles. This rich experience across various European leagues positions him well for the challenges of the Greek Super League. Panathinaikos, one of Greece's most historic and successful clubs, was founded in 1908 and boasts a legacy of 20 Greek Championships and 20 Greek Cups. Their ambition to reclaim domestic dominance and make an impact in European competitions makes Kangwa's acquisition a strategic one. The club sees Kangwa, who scored 12 goals and provided 11 assists in all competitions for Hapoel Be'er Sheva last season, as a valuable addition to their squad, capable of contributing significantly to their midfield and attacking prowess. Kangwa's move is part of a broader trend of Zambian footballers making their mark in top European leagues, following in the footsteps of players like Patson Daka, Lameck Banda, and Fashion