An experienced, attacking left-back: Giannoulis in focus

Comparisons with Konstantinos Stafylidis

FC Augsburg have secured the services of an experienced, attacking left-back in the shape of Dimitrios Giannoulis. Former FCA star Konstantinos Stafylidis played a part in his decision to join our club. We’re taking a closer look at our new signing.

“I play with a lot of intensity and can put in dangerous crosses,” is how Dimitrios Giannoulis describes his strengths. The Greek international began his career with Vataniakos, making his debut for the senior team in 2012. Giannoulis quickly impressed and showed his potential as a left-back, which earned him a move to PAOK in 2014.

A Greek champion

During his time at PAOK, Giannoulis picked up valuable experience on loan at Pierikos, Veria and Atromitos. He was named ‘Super League Rookie of the Year’ while out on loan in the 2015/16 season. Particularly at Atromitos, he showcased his skills and became one of the side’s key players before returning to PAOK in January 2019, where he won the Greek title that year, as well as two domestic cups. Giannoulis played over 100 games in the Super League in total, providing 16 assists.

Before signing his contract at the WWK ARENA, the 28-year-old sought the advice of Konstantinos Stafylidis, who made 61 appearances for the Fuggerstädter between 2015 and 2019 playing in the same position as Giannoulis. “He told me good things about the club and the city. Everything was great when he played here. The phone call with him convinced me to sign for this club,” said Giannoulis.

A spell in the Premier League

Giannoulis moved to English side Norwich City in 2021, initially on loan before joining on a permanent basis. His first full season at the club ended with relegation from the Premier League to the Championship however. He made 38 competitive appearances for the Canaries last season, putting in consistently good performances from left-back. Giannoulis has featured in six Champions League qualifying games and four Europa League matches during his career. He is also a regular fixture in the Greece national side, having won 27 caps since making his debut in 2018. At the start of June, he played 80 minutes of their friendly against Germany in Dortmund.

Now, Giannoulis has taken the next step in his career with a move to FC Augsburg. “I decided to come here to play in the Bundesliga, because it’s one of the top leagues that I’ve always wanted to play in. I’m excited and can’t wait to get started,” he said after his arrival at the training camp in Mpumalanga.