Otto Rehhagel Gearing up for Another Success for Greece in EURO 2008?

Even just four years ago, Greece was not a major football playing nation in the world. However, since they won the 2004 EURO tournament, they are considered as one of the top football playing countries in the world. In fact, Greece stands eighth in FIFA World Ranking at this moment.

The man who turned Greek football team around is its German coach Otto Rehhagel, who led Greece to win its first major football title in EURO 2004 tournament. Following EURO success, coach Otto Rehhagel has become one of the popular celebrities in the country and he is known as ‘King Otto’ in the country. However, Greece failed to qualify for the 2006 World Cup Football, but still Greece Football Federation has its belief on him. Recently, Otto Rehhagel has signed a new contract with Greece football federation by which he will be coaching Greek national football team till 2010. The coach said that there was a emotional bond which forced him to sign the new contract.

Canadian Press reported:

"There's an emotional bond, and that's the main reason I decided to stay ... I couldn't refuse," Rehhagel said. "When there's that bond with the players and a great relationship with the federation, it's difficult to say you won't continue."

Instead, "King Otto" stayed with Greece and led the team to the best record in Euro 2008 qualifying with 10 wins, one draw and one loss.

"I've said it many times: I think his (decision to extend his contract) is the best thing that could happen for the national team," Greece captain Angelos Basinas said.

I think, Greece football federation has done the right thing by extending the contract with Otto Rehhagel. Greece football federation could understand that he is right person to bring out more success for the team and build up Greece as one of the challenging power in world football. Otto Rehhagel has reputation for his defensive style of football, which was proven right in EURO 2004 as Greece played defensive football and emerged winner of the tournament. What is next for Otto Rehhagel, EURO 2008 title? Let’s see.