Lithuanian A Lyga side FA Šiauliai has announced the signing of one of FK Riteriai’s standout players, centre-back Nojus Stankevičius.
The 23-year-old defender is a product of the FK Žalgiris academy, although he never made a first-team appearance for the club. In 2022, Stankevičius was loaned out to Jonava, who at the time were competing in the Lithuanian A Lyga. Fittingly, his top-division debut came against his new team — FA Šiauliai.
In 2023, the young centre-back joined FK Riteriai, where he spent the last two and a half seasons. Following the club’s relegation from the A Lyga in 2023, Stankevičius played a key role in their immediate bounce-back, helping the team win the Pirma Lyga and earn promotion back to the top flight. This season has been the best of his career so far — with 17 appearances, 3 goals, and 3 assists, his performances have earned him a move to a higher-level team in the form of FA Šiauliai.
“The emotions right now are incredibly positive,” Stankevičius said after signing. “From the very first moment I arrived at this organization, I could tell the standards were very high. I’m really happy to join and can’t wait to start training with the yellow-and-blacks.”
“The decision wasn’t difficult at all, since both sides were interested. I also received only positive feedback from people who are currently or were previously involved here. A conversation with the coach really solidified my decision — I feel his trust, and I know this is a high-level organization,” he added.
“There are quite a few familiar faces in the team — I’ve played together with Kristupas Keršys, Karolis Žebrauskas, Gabrielius Micevičius, and Deividas Dovydaitis in Lithuania’s U21 national team. I also have a good relationship with coach Mantas Kuklys, with whom I spent a few years at FK Žalgiris. I’ve already faced several of my new teammates this season as we played three matches on opposing sides.”
“I hope to adapt quickly and build chemistry with my new teammates. I also hope to excite the fans not just by securing our goal, but also by scoring a few on the other end,” concluded the newest addition to FA Šiauliai.
Nojus Stankevičius has represented Lithuania at all youth levels, which includes earning 10 caps for the U21 national team. He will wear the number 33 shirt for FA Šiauliai.
Source: https://siauliufa.lt/i-siaulius-atvyksta-nojus-stankevicius/
