The number of Latvian footballers in the Czech top division will increase, as Latvia national team midfielder Kristers Penkevics is set to test himself abroad for the first time in his career. The 22-year-old has signed a three-year contract with Czech First League club FC Zlín.
Penkevics enjoyed a breakthrough campaign last season in his first year with FS Jelgava, quickly establishing himself as one of the team’s leaders and earning the captain’s armband. Over the course of the season, he made 33 league appearances, scoring two goals, providing three assists, and collecting 13 yellow cards, underlining his combative presence in midfield.
The year 2025 has been particularly successful for Penkevics. For the first time in several seasons, he managed to stay free of injuries throughout the campaign and was rewarded with his debut for the Latvian national team, coming on in a summer friendly against Azerbaijan.
Zlín sporting manager Pavel Hoftych spoke highly of the club’s new signing when introducing him to the media.
“He is a typical central midfielder with strong constructive distribution, but he is also hardworking and very solid defensively. He fits perfectly into our style of play,” Hoftych said.
In its official announcement, FC Zlín also revealed that extensive discussions were held with FS Jelgava sporting director Miroslav Brožek, a Czech native, who strongly endorsed Penkevics’ qualities. Brožek’s recommendation played a key role in bringing the Latvian midfielder to the club.
A graduate of the Tukums Football School, this move marks Penkevics’ first experience abroad. Previously, he represented only Latvian clubs, including FK Tukums 2000 and Valmiera FC, with whom he won the 2022 Virslīga title. In total, Penkevics has made 87 appearances in Latvia’s top division.
FC Zlín returned to the Czech First League this season after a one-year absence. After 19 matches, the club sits ninth in the standings with 26 points.
