Kauno Žalgiris head coach Saulius Širmelis has confirmed that three players will not be part of the team for the upcoming season. The announcement follows the conclusion of the A Lyga season, during which the club secured third place in the standings.
One of the departures is Slovenian midfielder Žan Benedičič. Although his contract included an option for an extension that had to be activated by November 1, the club chose not to utilize it. Benedičič made significant contributions during the season, participating in both the A Lyga and Lithuanian Cup, amassing 1,984 minutes across all competitions, with two league goals and one in the Cup.
Midfielder David Anane is another player whose contract will not be renewed. Last weekend, Anane played with the club’s B team, signaling his reduced role in the main squad. Throughout the season, Anane participated in both league and Cup matches, but his contributions were deemed insufficient for a continued role with the team.
Defender Numan Kurdič, who joined Kauno Žalgiris only in August, has already left the club. His contract was terminated by mutual agreement a few weeks ago. Despite his short stint, Kurdič appeared in five A Lyga matches, contributing to the team’s defense during a critical phase of the season.
Kauno Žalgiris finished third in the league standings, with 54 points from 36 matches, trailing FK Žalgiris Vilnius and FC Hegelmann.