Two of the most successful European coaches could be making moves to new clubs this summer. MARCA reports that Zeljko Obradovic received a generous offer from Anadolu Efes while Ettore Messina is set to return to active coaching by taking charge of CSKA Moscow.
Obradovic, who has been with Panathinaikos for 13 years expressed his desire to remain for another few years at the Greek club even though the team finished fourth in Euroleague and also lost Greek A1 league finals to fierce rivals Olympiacos.
Panathinaikos owners publicly stated that they also want Obradovic to stay with the Greens ‘forever’. Though so far the parties were unable to reach an agreement. It is reported that Obradvovic wants to have a budget which would keep Panathinaikos competitive at the highest level.
Even though Giannakopoulos family, after not finding the right buyer for PAO, decided to stay with the club, the budget will shrink.
Many teams want to sign Obradovic but only a few are able to meet his contract demands. According to MARCA, Anadolu Efes made an offer to the Serbian coach. Reportedly Turkish club send an empty paycheck asking Obradovic to enter any amount that he feels appropriate for his services.
Ettore Messina who enjoyed Euroleague success in recent years is also looking to make a comeback. The 52-year-old Italian is currently working as a consultant at Los Angeles Lakers.
Messina stated that he wants to work as a head coach again. There are several teams in Europe already making offers to him but it seems that he will return to familiar surroundings.
CSKA Moscow are the favourites to bring back Messina who led the Russians to four straight Euroleague finals and two titles in 2006 and 2008.
