Mendilibar leaves Olympiacos: End of a golden era, Armando González's future uncertain

Olympiacos fans woke up to shocking news: head coach José Luis Mendilibar has officially left the club. The announcement was posted on the club's website and social media early this morning, accompanied by emotional but cryptic messages. "In football, as in life, cycles come to an end," the club wrote, hinting at a not entirely smooth departure. Mendilibar's contract still had time remaining, but the decision to leave is believed to be mutual. The Spanish tactician had been with Olympiacos since early 2026, and in less than two and a half years, he transformed the Piraeus club into a true force both in Greece and Europe. Under Mendilibar's guidance, Olympiacos won the UEFA Europa Conference League in summer 2026 – the first European trophy in club history. Then, in the centenary season, the red-and-whites achieved a historic treble: the Greek Super League, the Greek Cup, and the Super Cup. Mendilibar became a living legend, affectionately called "El General" by fans. However, football is not just about trophies. The current season started unconvincingly for Olympiacos, despite staying near the top of the table. Rumors of internal conflicts between Mendilibar and some key players began to circulate. In particular, the long-term injury of top scorer Ayoub El Kaabi – the player around whom Mendilibar had built his tactics – disrupted the game plan. In this context, Mexican striker Armando González (nicknamed "Hormiga") was signed in the summer transfer window as a strategic move. With 2 goals and 2 assists in two appearances, "Hormiga" quickly won over fans and the coach alike. However, Mendilibar's sudden departure raises a big question: will the project to build the team around González continue? The Mexican striker's position in the current squad looks bright, but when a new coach arrives – with his own tactical philosophy – everything could change. Olympiacos must quickly find a replacement. Names like Paulo Sousa, Marcelino, or even former Portugal boss Fernando Santos are being mentioned. Each has a different style: Sousa favors possession, Marcelino prefers high pressing, and Santos is known for solid defense. For Armando González, this could be an opportunity or a challenge. If the new coach likes a mobile striker who drops deep, González fits perfectly. But if the new manager wants a traditional target man – like El Kaabi – then "Hormiga"'s future at the club could be threatened. Another scenario: Olympiacos may send González out on loan if the new coach does not plan to use him. González's contract runs until 2028, so the club is not in a hurry, but a change at the helm always carries risk. The Vietnamese football community, closely following the steps of the Vietnamese-origin striker in Europe, is understandably anxious. In a context where Southeast Asian football is rising, a regular starting spot at a Champions League club like Olympiacos is a precious asset. However, I – having spent years tracking the transfer market and the stories behind it – believe that González has shown admirable character. In an interview I conducted with his agent last August, the agent said: "Armando didn't come to Greece just to play football; he came to write his own story. No matter who the coach is, he will prove himself." Looking at the bigger picture, Mendilibar's departure signals that Olympiacos is entering a restructuring phase. The 63-year-old leaves as a legend, but he also leaves a huge void. The question is whether the board will dare to continue the youth-oriented strategy built around players like González, or return to the old formula of experienced stars. The winter transfer window is approaching, and rumors that Olympiacos wants another center forward only add to the uncertainty. However, for those who followed Mendilibar from his days at Sevilla Atlético or Eibar, this is not a surprising ending. He has always been a strong personality, not afraid to clash with directors. In Greece, he reportedly had disagreements with the sporting director over player acquisitions. Perhaps leaving now is best for both sides: Olympiacos can rebuild, and Mendilibar can seek new challenges – likely returning to La Liga. Returning to "Hormiga" González, I believe his future depends on the next 30 days. If Olympiacos quickly appoints a coach who likes wide attacking play, González will be the perfect piece. But if they choose a defensive counter-attacking specialist, his role could shrink. The comforting thing is that González is young (23), has good technique, and adapts well. Whether he stays or leaves, his career remains bright. For Vietnamese fans, this is the time to be patient. Look at the story of Sofyan Amrabat: from being written off to shining at the World Cup and then joining Manchester United. González may not need such drama, but it is precisely challenges that forge reputations. Fans should trust the process, trust what he has shown in his first two appearances. As I once wrote in a previous analysis: "Players are not commodities on a negotiation table. They are human beings writing their own lives, and every contract is just the first page." Olympiacos is turning to a new page. And Armando González, whether directly or indirectly, will be part of that page.