CATCHING UP WITH DIMITRIOS GOUTAS
- ccfcinsider
- Jul 11
- 3 min read
I caught up with Ex-Cardiff City defender Dimitrios Goutas, as we discuss Dimi's two year stint at The Bluebirds, his goal in the South Wales Derby, and the defender's final message to the City faithful.
What were your initial thoughts before signing for Cardiff City? What attracted you to Cardiff City?
When I heard about Cardiff’s interest, I was really excited. It was my first choice and I did everything I could to join the team. Playing in such a competitive league and for such a good team made my decision much easier.
You played a crucial role in a 2-0 South Wales Derby win - how does the Wales derby compare to other derbies you have played in?
Playing in such a big derby was something really special for me. Managing to leave my mark in such an important derby means a lot to me. You could feel the passion that everyone in the team had to get the win. All derbies are always special, but for me this one will have a special place in my heart.
You played every game in your first season, what surprised you most about the Championship?
What impressed me about the Championship is the quality it has as a league and, at the same time, the physical condition you need to cope with its intensity. It’s truly a tough and beautiful league.
Cardiff had a poor start to the next season, why do you think that was?
We had made quite a few changes to the team compared to the first year. I believe we had quality players, and in many games we didn’t get what we deserved. When, after many matches, you’re low in the standings, then psychology and the strength you have to bounce back also play an important role.
You scored your last Cardiff goal in another Derby win, how special was that moment for you?
It was a very special moment for me. I had been chasing that goal in the previous matches but couldn’t manage to score. When I won the header and saw the ball hit the back of the net, I truly felt the energy from the stands. It was really special.
Just after the derby win Sio departed, how big of an affect did this have on you?
Manolis’ departure from the team was really significant for me. We were always together, sharing our concerns and talking about many things. Manolis’ energy is such that you can truly feel his absence.
Close to the end of last season you found yourself out of the team, how difficult was that for you?
It was a period in my career when nothing was working out for me on the pitch. It was a time when I had to sort out a lot of things in my mind. But I always try to see the positive side. I tried to work on myself and see things more clearly.
How would you describe the dressing room culture during your time at Cardiff City?
The mentality and atmosphere we had in the dressing room were really good. We truly had great guys in the team. The team truly has very talented players who, with the right work, will have a great career ahead of them.
Your final message to the Cardiff City supporters.
I want to say a big thank you to the Cardiff fans for their support over these two years. I truly felt a lot of love from the supporters, and at the end of the day, that’s what stays with you. I give my love back to them and I wish the team returns soon to where it belongs. I hope that one day I’ll see them all again in person.
Big thanks to Dimi for answering the questions, and all the best for the future!
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