Former players from Manchester City, PSG, and Rangers are among those who appear to be overqualified for the Cypriot First Division.
Famous for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and endless sunshine, Cyprus undoubtedly serves as an attractive destination for players looking to enjoy their later years.
Upon examining the top tier of football in Cyprus, we’ve highlighted five athletes who deserve to compete in a more prestigious league.
Stevan Jovetic
If not for the persistent injuries that have affected his career, who knows how exceptional Jovetic could have been?
Despite facing numerous challenges along the way, he has played for some of Europe’s most notable clubs, including Inter Milan, Sevilla, and Manchester City.
After becoming a free agent over the summer, he opted to sign a two-year contract with Omonia.
At the time of writing, the 35-year-old has netted four goals and provided four assists in nine league appearances—a commendable record for a player relishing the twilight of his career.
Grzegorz Krychowiak
The former PSG and Sevilla player has rarely spent a long time at a single club, now marking his 12th team in his career.
Following recent spells in Russia, Greece, and Saudi Arabia, he is currently with Anorthosis Famagusta, situated in the league’s lower half.
Given his track record of frequently switching teams, it wouldn’t be surprising if his time in Cyprus turns out to be brief.
Connor Goldson
After spending his prime years with Rangers, the 32-year-old transferred to Aris Limassol last summer.
He seems to be making a positive impact in his new environment, as his team currently holds the best defensive record in the league, having conceded only nine goals in their first 16 matches.
Upon his arrival in Cyprus in July, Goldson expressed that his ambition to win trophies was a key factor in his decision to join the club.
“When I heard about this I spoke with the owner, I spoke with the coach and I was really excited for the project,” the defender noted upon joining.
“I was really excited to try and win championships, try and win trophies, and that’s what I came here to do.”
Max Meyer
In his early years with Schalke, Meyer was hailed as one of the most promising talents in European football. A dynamic playmaker with a keen eye for goal, he attracted the interest of several top clubs during his development.
Although his career never fully escalated to the heights some anticipated, he has still carved out a successful trajectory, featuring for Crystal Palace and Fenerbahce along the way.
Along with the fact that he now plays in Cyprus, we were surprised to discover that he is still just 29 years old.
Having enjoyed a couple of solid years with Swiss club Luzern, Meyer made the move to APOEL as a free agent over the summer.
Domingos Quina
The former West Ham and Watford prodigy has experienced quite a varied journey in his career to date. Despite being only 25, he has already represented ten different clubs.
Watford fans in particular had substantial hopes for Quina, but his time at Vicarage Road did not unfold as anticipated.
He spent last season with Udinese before transferring to Cyprus last summer to join Pafos for a reported fee of £500,000.
Quina has made 13 league appearances, scoring once for the leaders of the Cypriot league.
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