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Panathinaikos begin new era under fan rule

"From now on Panathinaikos belongs to its people," said fans' coalition group leader Yiannis Alafouzos, who also owns the Skai media group.

"I thank all supporters and stakeholders who have made this possible. The alliance represents the fans.

"We must learn from the losses incurred last year and start to build a new Panathinaikos.

"We also thank the players and the coach who agreed to delay their payments to make this a reality," he added.

After the completion of the share transfer, the coalition group announced that another of the club's major shareholders, Andreas Vgenopoulos, had also pledged to become a member.

Vgenopoulos, who was at loggerheads with Vardinoyiannis, has owned a 20 percent stake in the club since 2008 and pledged to offer his "full support and business expertise" to the alliance.

Members are allocated shares based on the amount of money invested but each of those supporters will be given just one vote in the group's decision-making procedures.

Fans can become e-members on the Internet, by paying the subscription of 20 euros or more, at the Panathinaiki Alliance group's website.

After a season of financial turmoil in 2011/12 amid the backdrop of the country's economic crisis, which has markedly affected Greek football, Panathinaikos are pinning their hopes on the scheme to bring stability to the club's finances.