Arsenal Player's "Home Debut" Ends After 16 Minutes

It should have been a big party for Christos Tzolis:

The Greek international, who has been playing for Arsenal FC since summer 2026, returned to his former home stadium for the UEFA Nations League match against the Netherlands. However, it was to be a brief pleasure for the 24-year-old.

28,000 Spectators in Thessaloniki

In his hometown of Thessaloniki, Tzolis was finally able to play in front of 28,000 spectators after years of waiting.

Such a crowd had been denied to him during his time at PAOK Thessaloniki due to the Covid pandemic. Tzolis wore the jersey of the traditional Greek club from 2018 to 2021, making a total of 52 competitive appearances.

In the Nations League match against the Netherlands, the 24-year-old was in the starting eleven at the stadium of his former club.

First the Cheers, Then the Disappointment

After eleven minutes, the "Gunner" even scored what would have been the supposed opener for the Greeks. However, his goal was disallowed due to an offside position by a teammate.

Just a few minutes later came the big shock: After a sprint, Tzolis grabbed the back of his right thigh and had to end the game after just 16 minutes.

Visibly frustrated, the Greek bid farewell to "his" fans. Investigations on Friday are expected to reveal the severity of the injury.

However, the 24-year-old will certainly miss the return leg against Germany (Sunday, from 8:45 PM in the LIVE ticker).