Cyriel Dessers is hungry to make his mark after a frustrating debut season at Panathinaikos was cut short by injury, with the Nigeria international targeting a return to full fitness before the new campaign kicks off in mid-August.

Dessers suffered the injury during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in January, an untimely blow that ended his season prematurely. The 31-year-old has since returned to training and is working to get back to peak condition.

"I am working extremely hard to be in top shape this season. Giving it my all, scoring goals, winning matches, and lifting trophies," Dessers told BN DeStem.

"I expect to be in top shape by the start of the league in mid-August. Hopefully, I'll get some minutes in the European qualifiers before that."

A difficult first chapter at Panathinaikos

Dessers made the move to the Greek Super League club last summer after departing Scottish Premiership giants Rangers. He managed two goals and one assist across five league appearances before the injuries mounted.

"It has been difficult — a season with many injuries. For the first time in my career, actually, so I had to get used to that," he said.

The striker was candid about the pressure he feels to justify the faith Panathinaikos showed in signing him. "Especially because the club paid a nice transfer fee for me, I just want to give something back to them. For the fans too, of course. I received so much love from them and it feels difficult that you can't give that back."

With the new season approaching, Dessers is determined to repay that loyalty on the pitch.