Yannis Kalitzakis (Greek: Γιάννης Καλτζάκης) is a retired Greek professional footballer, best known for his time as a central defender with Panathinaikos and the Greece national team.

• Full name: Giannis (Yannis) Kalitzakis
• Date of birth: 26 August 1962
• Place of birth: Athens, Greece
• Position: Centre back (central defender)

Club career

• Apollon Smyrnis (youth and early senior career) — Kalitzakis started his professional career at Apollon Smyrnis, where his performances brought him national attention.
• Panathinaikos (1986–1998) — He is most notable for a long, successful spell at Panathinaikos. During his years there he became a cornerstone of the club’s defense, winning multiple Greek league and cup honours and featuring in European competitions, including the European Cup/Champions League. He was known for his strong marking, leadership and aerial ability.
• Later career — After leaving Panathinaikos he had a short spell with AEL (Athlitiki Enosi Larissa) before retiring from playing.

International career

• Kalitzakis was capped many times by the Greece national team and served as an important defensive figure throughout the late 1980s and 1990s. He represented Greece in qualifying campaigns and international fixtures, bringing experience and leadership to the national side.

Playing style and legacy

• Kalitzakis was regarded as a reliable, no-nonsense central defender: strong in tackles, good in the air, and effective in organizing the back line.
• He remains a well-regarded figure among Panathinaikos supporters and is remembered as one of the prominent Greek defenders of his generation.

Honours (selected)

• Greek Championship titles with Panathinaikos (during his tenure)
• Greek Cup victories with Panathinaikos

This summary focuses on Kalitzakis’s main clubs, national team role, and reputation. For specific season-by-season statistics, appearance and goal totals, or details about exact trophy years, consult official club records or reliable football databases.