Tasos Douvikas: Como 1907’s New Striker

Anastasios “Tasos” Douvikas has covered a lot of ground—both on the pitch and across Europe. Born in Athens in 1999, the Greek striker started his professional career at Asteras Tripolis before making waves with Volos, where an 11-goal season put him on the radar of clubs beyond Greece. From there, it was a steady climb: a move to FC Utrecht in the Netherlands, where he became the Eredivisie’s top scorer in 2022–23, followed by a spell in La Liga with Celta Vigo. And now, a new chapter begins in Italy, as he swaps the Atlantic coast for the shimmering waters of Lake Como.

But who is the man behind the goals? A forward with an instinct for the back of the net, sure—but also a cat lover, a pool shark, and a guy who keeps his dinner guest list tight. We sat down with him to find out more.

Welcome to Como, Tasos! What was your first thought when you saw the lake?
“That it’s beautiful. Of course, everyone knows how beautiful the lake is, how beautiful the city is. I had never visited before, so yes, it was my first time, and I was very excited to see that.”

What are your first impressions of the club? Was it what you expected?
“I didn’t know how it would work out here, but everyone is so friendly, so familiar. They help me with everything, making it very easy to adapt to the team. I’m very happy to be here.”

What’s your earliest memory of playing football? Your dad (Giannis Douvikas) was a player, wasn’t he?
“Yes, my father was a professional football player in Greece. I started playing when I was five years old, so football has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. I love the game.”

Who is your favorite player of all time?
“Ronaldo. The Brazilian one. The phenomenon. His way of playing, his dribbling, his finishing—everything. He was amazing.”

Do you follow any other sports?
“Yes, I’m very good at pool. I’ve been playing since I was young with my best friends and it’s an amazing feeling when I play with them.”

Would you be a professional pool player if you weren’t a footballer?
“Probably. I’m already at a very good level. Maybe after football, I’ll try to go pro.”

Do you have any matchday superstitions?
“No, never.”

Do you listen to music before games?
“It depends on how I feel. I don’t have a specific playlist or song—I just go with my mood.”What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
“I’ve had great coaches, and I always try to listen and learn from them. There’s nothing specific, but I try to take something from everyone.”

What do you do to relax?
“I play with my cat.”

What’s your cat’s name?
“Grace. We’ve been together for four years, and she’s amazing.”

If you could invite three people to dinner in Como—anyone, famous or not, alive or dead—who would you invite?
“My girlfriend and my two best friends. That’s all I need.”

Do you have a life philosophy?
“Work hard, and your moment will come. That’s my attitude.”

Is there something about you that fans wouldn’t guess?
“Not really. I’m a calm person right now. My focus is on football and enjoying my life. My routine is pretty much the same every day.”What’s something you’re looking forward to doing in Como?
“I think I need to explore a little more before I can answer that.”