A transfer fee of 10 million euros facilitated the move of Andreas Samaris from Olympiacos to Benfica in August 2014. This defensive midfielder, born in Patras on 13 June 1989, secured his professional foundations in Greece before embarking on a career in the Portuguese Primeira Liga, where he remained for several successful seasons.
Early Career and Domestic Success
Samaris began his professional journey with Panachaiki, signing his first contract on 10 April 2007 under the guidance of manager Ange Postecoglou. He made 37 league appearances for the club. In January 2010, he transferred to Panionios. By 2012, he joined Olympiacos, though he remained on loan at Panionios for that season. Upon his return to Piraeus in 2013, he played 38 matches and scored four goals, contributing significantly to the club's 41st domestic league title.
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Upon joining Benfica in 2014, Samaris signed a five-year contract containing a 45 million euro release clause. He recorded his 100th appearance for the club in March 2017. During his time in Lisbon, he secured four Primeira Liga titles, two Taça da Liga trophies, one Taça de Portugal, and two Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira titles. His contract was extended in 2019 until 2023, though he eventually agreed to a contract termination on 31 August 2021.
International Representation
Samaris represented the Greece national team from 2013 to 2019. Manager Fernando Santos included him in the 23-man squad for the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil. During that tournament, he replaced the injured Panagiotis Kone in a group stage match against the Ivory Coast and scored in the 42nd minute, helping his side to a 2-1 victory.
Post-Benfica Transitions
Following his departure from Portugal, Samaris moved to the Netherlands to join Fortuna Sittard in November 2021. He made his debut later that month against FC Groningen. He returned to Portugal in August 2022 to sign with Rio Ave for one season. By August 2023, he had moved to Brazil, joining the club Coritiba on a one-year deal.
Fast facts
- Born: 13 June 1989, Patras
- Professional debut: 2006
- Position: Midfielder
- National team career: 2013-2019
- Notable tournament: 2014 FIFA World Cup
- Benfica transfer fee: 10 million euros
Questions readers ask
Which major clubs did Samaris play for during his career?
He played for Panachaiki, Panionios, Olympiacos, Benfica, Fortuna Sittard, Rio Ave, and Coritiba.
Did Samaris score in the 2014 FIFA World Cup?
Yes, he scored the opening goal for Greece against the Ivory Coast on 24 June 2014.
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