Kikianis is ready to take the next step after being named in the Club’s new leadership group
Fresh off a strong pre-season performance against his junior club, West Adelaide, Adelaide United defender Panagiotis Kikianis is beaming with pride after being promoted to the Club’s senior leadership group.
The 20-year-old, who made 32 A-League appearances and scored three goals last season, is fast becoming a fan favourite thanks to his maturity, resilience, and on-field presence. His promotion to the leadership group marks another key milestone in what is shaping up to be another breakout year.
Speaking after Tuesday night’s win in a spirited friendly at Kilburn Sports Complex, Kikianis reflected on the experience of playing in front of a local crowd and his overall take on the squad’s progress.
“It was a very good contest. Always good to come and be in this local environment,” he said.
“I thought it was a really good game — very intense. The score showed maybe a bit different, but I think it was probably one of our best hit-outs so far.”
Despite a disappointing exit from the Australia Cup last week, Kikianis remains optimistic about the campaign ahead.
“We’re at the start of our pre-season… No excuses – Newcastle were very good, they were probably more prepared than us,” he admitted.
“But I have full faith in our squad and the coaching staff that they’ll do special things this year.”
Kikianis’ rapid development was on full display last year when he helped Australia win the U20 Asian Cup, adding valuable international experience to his résumé. Now, with a new shirt number and a growing leadership role, he is determined to take his game, and the team, to another level.
“It’s an honour to wear number four. To play for United in itself is an honour, and to wear such a big number, I’m really proud of,” he said.
While his promotion to the leadership group was only made official this week, Kikianis sees it as a natural extension of the way he already carries himself on and off the pitch.
“I’ve always prided myself on being a leader – no matter whether I’m in the leadership group, I’m a captain, or whatever it is,” he said. “I like to lead on the pitch and in the changeroom, and I feel like being in the leadership group allows me to express my ideas a bit more, have a say, and hopefully I can add a bit more to the group.”
With Craig Goodwin confirmed as captain, Kikianis is excited to learn from one of the Clubs all-time greats.
“Obviously Goody’s captain, so I’m excited to learn a lot off him,” he added.
With his maturity beyond his years and a clear hunger for growth, Panagiotis Kikianis is a name every Reds fan should be keeping a close eye on this season.
