Zimbabwe international forward Philana Tinotenda Kadewere has officially embarked on a new chapter in his illustrious career, joining Greek Super League powerhouse Aris Thessaloniki on a three-year deal.
The move, announced by ARIS FC, sees the prolific striker bring his formidable talents to the fervent atmosphere of the Kleanthis Vikelidis Stadium.
In his first words as an Aris player, Kadewere immediately struck a chord with the club’s ambitious spirit.
“In the new year, let’s achieve our goals.”
This rallying cry sets a clear intent for his time in Greece, emphasising his commitment to contributing to the team’s success.
Speaking to arisfc.com.gr after signing his contract, Kadewere expressed his overwhelming gratitude and enthusiasm for the move.
“I am truly overwhelmed by the love I have received from the people of ARIS in these first days and I am very happy to now belong to this team,” he shared.
The 28-year-old, born on January 5, 1996, in Harare, has diligently climbed the footballing ladder since his beginnings at Prince Edward School and Harare City.
His European journey began in the 2015-16 season with Djurgardens IF in Sweden, where he quickly ascended from the U21 team to become a permanent fixture, bagging 18 goals and 9 assists in 60 appearances and celebrating a Swedish Cup triumph by 2018.
His impressive performances caught the eye of French side Le Havre, who acquired him for €2 million.
Kadewere truly blossomed in Ligue 2, where his second season was nothing short of a dream, as he emerged as the division’s top scorer with a remarkable 20 goals in just 24 appearances.
Such an explosive display inevitably led to a move to French giants Olympique Lyonnais in 2020 for a substantial €12 million though he finished that season on loan at Le Havre.
His two-year stint at Lyon saw him make 53 appearances, scoring 11 goals and providing 3 assists across all competitions.
A loan spell at Mallorca in 2022 (19 appearances, 2 goals) offered further experience before he returned to Lyon.
Most recently, a positive six-month loan to FC Nantes in mid-season saw him make the move permanent in the summer of 2024, contributing 3 goals and 2 assists in 14 appearances in Ligue 1 and the Coupe de France last season.
A seasoned international, Kadewere has been a vital part of the Zimbabwe national team since 2015, earning 19 caps and scoring 3 goals.
“I have received a lot of information about ARIS. It is one of the biggest teams in Greece, which sets high goals every year and has fans who love their team passionately,” Kadewere added, clearly understanding the significance of joining a club with such a passionate fanbase and clear ambitions.
“We have very good players and I came to help from my side so that we can achieve our goals in the new year. I am looking forward to the new experience I will have here. I can honestly say that I feel very happy and I will give my best for ARIS. All together we will give everything so that we have a good year with successes and distinctions.”
