Mourning on Mars: Kostas Papaioannou is “gone”.

The week began with sad news for the Ares family, as Kostas Papaioannou “passed away” after months of struggle with health problems.

Papaioannou was born on July 28, 1945, and began his career with PAOD, but enjoyed his longest spell and greatest number of successes with the Aris shirt, which he honored from 1967 to 1976.

He played either as a left winger or as a 'ten', scoring 79 goals in 258 matches for the 'Yellow'. Then he moved to Panayetolikos, where he finished his career.

Kostas Papaioannou was a key member of the Aris team that won the 1970 Greek Cup (1-0 PAOK in Kaftantsoglio). He also wore the shirt bearing the national emblem three times (1969-1972) while he was president of the Mars Veterans for many years.

“The great Kostas Papaioannou has passed away… Have a nice trip…,” said a related post by PAE Aris on social media, and the people of Thessaloniki issued a related statement of condolence, which said:

“A great chapter in the history of Aris football is no longer with us. Our association family mourns the loss of the great Kostas Papaioannou, who has passed away at the age of 79.

The deceased linked his name to the great team of the sixties and seventies. He wore the Aris jersey from 1967 to 1976, making 258 appearances and scoring 79 goals.

Kostas Papaioannou also served as President of the Aris Veterans Footballers Association. PAE Aris is deeply saddened by his loss and extends its deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. And let the soil that will cover it be light…”