Dessers is back in training after a long injury layoff

Cyriel Dessers, who plays for Panathinaikos, has started full training with the Greek club as they prepare for the 2026/27 season. He had been out for about six months due to a thigh injury, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.

The 31-year-old striker faced a tough first season in Greece. Injuries kept him to just five matches in the Greek Super League, where he scored two goals.

Dessers struggled with his injuries, which affected his playtime after Panathinaikos spent €4.63 million to sign him from Rangers. He couldn’t find his rhythm and build momentum.

Now, Dessers has shared that he is working hard to get back to full fitness. He hopes to be ready before the new Greek Super League season kicks off in August.

In a chat with BN DeStem through VoetbalPrimeur, Dessers said last season was one of the hardest in his career because of the injuries.

“It has been difficult, a season with many injuries. For the first time in my career, actually, so I had to get used to that,” Dessers explained.

He added, “Especially because the club paid a nice transfer fee for me, I just want to give something back to them. For the fans, too, of course. I received so much love from them, and it feels difficult that I can’t give that back.”

Dessers mentioned that he is already back in intense training with Panathinaikos. He aims to return before their European qualifying matches.

“I am working extremely hard to be in top shape this season. Giving it my all, scoring goals, winning matches and lifting trophies,” he said.

“I expect to be in top shape by the start of the league in mid-August. Hopefully, I’ll get some minutes in the European qualifiers before that.”

Dessers last played for Panathinaikos in a 2-1 win over Volos on December 12, 2025. He scored in that match before heading to represent the Super Eagles at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

After returning in January, he dealt with a thigh injury that kept him out for 27 matches in all competitions. With limited playtime due to injuries, Dessers ended the season with three goals in eight appearances across all competitions.