Víctor Griffith Reflects on His Leap From Panama’s LPF to European Football

Panamanian midfielder Víctor Griffith spoke to the press this week while in camp with the national team ahead of upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Belize and Nicaragua. Now playing for Scotland’s St. Johnstone FC, the 24-year-old is beginning to make his mark in European football.

Griffith, formerly of Deportivo Árabe Unido, called the transition from the LPF to Europe a major milestone. “It was a big step—moving from Panama’s league to Europe doesn’t happen often,” he said. “They’ve given me a lot of trust over there.”

At St. Johnstone, Griffith has been asked to take on roles outside his usual position, something he says has helped him grow. “I played in unfamiliar positions, and that opened a new window for me to showcase my abilities in different ways.”

Previously a regular with Panama’s U-20 squad, Griffith is now determined to establish himself at the senior level. “I had been waiting for this opportunity for a while. I played many matches early under the new coach, and now it’s time to take advantage of the opportunity again,” he said.

With his European move, Griffith is setting a new standard for Panamanian players looking to break through on the international stage.