FK Žalgiris have officially announced that one of the key players from last season’s title-winning team, Joel Bopesu, is leaving the club after four years.
The 30-year-old Frenchman joined Žalgiris in 2021 after transferring from the French club Canet Roussillon FC. During his time at Žalgiris, the left-back secured three A Lyga titles, including a Lithuanian Cup and a Lithuanian Super Cup.
Last season, Joel displayed exceptional performances, scoring seven goals and providing 14 assists in 35 league matches. Additionally, he played four games in the UEFA Conference League qualifiers, contributing with three assists.
Over his four seasons with Žalgiris, Bopesu made a total of 159 appearances, ranking him third all-time among foreign players in the modern era of the club. Only Donovan Slingjard (2015-2020) and current Žalgiris forward Liviu Antal have more appearances.
“These four years have been amazing for me. We have achieved a lot together, fought for our dreams, and won everything possible. I want to thank you for the time spent at this wonderful club. It was an honor for me to play for such a famous and legendary club as Žalgiris, with such wonderful fans. I am grateful for these four memorable years of my life. I will always cherish them. As a person and as a player, I thank you for your support and love. We grew together, achieved our dreams, and won a lot. However, the time has come to say goodbye. I wish you all the best. I have no doubt that you will achieve many more successes,” said Bopesu in his farewell speech.
According to reports, the French defender, who, before moving to Lithuania, also played in Latvia for Riga FC and North Macedonia, will continue his career in Armenia.
Source: https://fkzalgiris.lt/keturis-sezonus-vilniuje-zaides-j-bopesu-atsisveikina/