Giannis Papanikolaou (Greek: Γιάννης Παπανικολάου; born 18 November 1998) is a Greek professional footballer who plays as a defensive midfielder or central midfielder for Turkish Süper Lig club Çaykur Rizespor and the Greece national football team.

[3] On 11 June 2019, Panionios officially announced the signing of Papanikolaou on a free transfer.

[4] The young winger, who made 31 appearances during the 2018–19 season, scoring four goals and giving five assists, joined the club, following his refusal to renew his contract with Platanias.

[6] On 8 February 2021, the club announced they have made use of the option and have extended his contract until the end of June 2025.

[9] On 13 June 2024, Turkish Süper Lig club Çaykur Rizespor announced they have reached an agreement with Raków to sign Papanikolaou on a three-year contract.