GIORGOS GIAKOUMAKIS is savouring the prospect of playing at Celtic Park on a Champions League night, saying that the experience will eclipse even the fervour of the famed atmospheres in his homeland.
Giakoumakis played in the Champions League previously when he was with AEK Athens, and picks out a night when Ajax visited the Olympic Stadium in the Greek capital as one of the most incredible occasions in his career.
But he says that the atmosphere created by the Celtic supporters since he came to Glasgow is far beyond anything he has seen before, and he can’t wait to sample the iconic atmosphere of Celtic Park on a Champions League night when they play their group games next season.
And the striker is also convinced that Celtic can compete at such a level.
“Playing in the Champions League is something you dream of from being a child,” Giakoumakis said.
“I played it already for a great team like Athens, but here it is going to be special.
“It’s the top competition a player can participate in. Everyone wants to compete at that level.
“I love it. I managed to play a couple of games in the Champions League with AEK Athens and it was a special experience. When you hear that anthem, you lose your mind. It’s amazing.
“The atmosphere in Athens when we played Ajax was incredible. The AEK fans are insane and the atmosphere they create is incredible.
“But I can’t even imagine what Celtic Park will be like with these fans. I think it will be crazy.
“The experiences we have had this season cannot be compared with anywhere. It’s not even close.”
