When Rolandas Džiaukštas took over Vilnius Žalgiris last autumn, he stepped into a club coming off one of its most turbulent seasons in recent memory. The campaign had ended in disappointment both on and off the pitch, with instability in management and inconsistent performances. The only real positive was that, under the new coach, the team managed to secure a European spot and keep its place in continental competition.
Now, at the start of the 2026 season, the 47-year-old Vilnius native told Baltic Football News that he is focused on restoring the club’s identity – and its status as champions.
Preparation for the new season has already reflected a different approach. “This winter we put a lot of emphasis on the players’ physical preparation,” Džiaukštas explained, noting internal changes within the club, including a new doctor and the arrival of a fitness coach. After a season disrupted by injuries, those adjustments are seen as crucial steps forward.
Squad building has also raised questions, particularly after last year’s recruitment struggles and ongoing concerns about injuries and internal dynamics. Žalgiris showed interest in bringing back former striker Mathias Oyewusi during the winter, but a deal could not be reached. “Yes, he was one of our options, we were actively interested, but we didn’t manage to agree,” Džiaukštas admitted.
When it comes to opportunities for young players, his stance is firm and uncompromising. “If they prove they are worthy of being in the team, they will have their chance – but no one will be dragged in artificially,” he said. That philosophy extends to Lithuanian players in general, especially those who lost their place last season to foreign signings. “No young Lithuanian will be pushed forward just because. But if I have to choose between two players of equal level, I will choose our own Lithuanian.”
Recruitment decisions are made in cooperation with the sporting director, but even then, attracting players is not always easy. “The level of the league plays a role – we have to admit it’s not very attractive in a European context. Financial factors are also important,” he said. Still, one principle remains unchanged: “Any player who comes must prove he deserves a place in the starting eleven.”
Balancing results with player development is possible, but at Žalgiris, priorities are clear. “Everything can be combined, but here the most important thing is results,” Džiaukštas stressed. At the same time, he recognises the long-term value of development: “If a player proves himself and can be sold, bringing value to the club – that is something to aim for, especially for Lithuanian players.”
Reflecting on why Lithuanian clubs lag behind their Latvian and Estonian counterparts in player trading and recruitment, Džiaukštas deflected responsibility: “That’s more a question for the sporting director. My job is to prepare the player and make him better.”
On the pitch, tactical flexibility will define Žalgiris this season. “There will be some adjustments depending on how we build the squad,” he said. “Our goal is to be at the top, and to achieve that you need to attack well, defend solidly and score goals.” So far this season Vilnius club have been good with scoring goals, while keeping the ball out of the goal has been a struggle as they have fourth worst record in the league currently in terms of allowed goals with six in five games.
Looking more broadly at Lithuanian football, Džiaukštas rejects the idea that the level has significantly declined. Instead, he points to global trends and the increasing role of foreign players. “If we want to be competitive in Europe, this is unavoidable,” he said, noting that even top European clubs rely heavily on international talent.
At the same time, he highlighted the importance of youth development and the difficult transition from academy to senior football. “A young player must overcome that barrier. If he is not ready to play in Lithuania, it will be even harder for him abroad,” he explained. Modern football, in his view, demands versatility, speed of thought and quick decision-making. “You need to think fast, move well, release the ball at the right time – and do everything quickly and correctly.”
The game itself has evolved significantly since his playing days. “Football has become much faster. Formations may look the same on paper, but during matches they constantly change,” he said. “If a player can run from one penalty box to the other for 90 minutes, he will always be valued. The intensity today is much higher.”
Džiaukštas’ own career path has shaped his outlook. He debuted in Lithuania’s top division at just 17 and later became a key national team defender. He fondly recalls his early coach Vincas Kateiva: “He was like a second father. A lot of who I am today comes from him.”
His playing career, however, ended earlier than expected due to a serious injury. “I didn’t finish my career as planned. Life arranged things differently,” he admitted. “There were moments when I was completely away from football. But today, I am happy where I am.”
That perspective also defines his approach to coaching. Stability for its own sake is not the goal. “I don’t want to stay in a club just to stay as long as possible. I want to work, to give everything, and help the team achieve the highest objectives.”
And those objectives are clear. After a difficult year, Žalgiris are aiming to reclaim the title – and with Džiaukštas at the helm, the message is simple: results first, but with structure, clarity and belief.
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