FK Žalgiris Vilnius has officially announced the signing of Brazilian striker Henrique Devens, marking his return to Lithuanian football. The move, which had been widely rumored in recent days, was confirmed by the club through a social media post earlier this afternoon.
A familiar face in Lithuanian football
Devens, 27, is no stranger to Lithuanian football fans. His journey in the country began in the second division with Plungė’s Babrungas before a short loan spell at DFK Dainava Alytus. After returning to Babrungas, he found his stride with FK Transinvest, where he played a pivotal role in the club’s historic 2023 season, helping them secure the Pirma lyga title and lifting the Lithuanian Cup. In their subsequent A lyga campaign, he netted an impressive 16 goals, though the club ultimately faced relegation.
Following Transinvest’s drop back to Pirma lyga, Devens made a brief move to Qatari second-division side Al-Bidda SC. However, his stint in the Middle East lasted only a month and a half before he opted for a return to Lithuania, this time joining the reigning champions FK Žalgiris Vilnius.
Strengthening the Attack
FK Žalgiris Vilnius has had a shaky start to their A lyga campaign, narrowly securing a 2-1 victory over Džiugas Telšiai before playing out a thrilling 3-3 draw against Riteriai. These early-season performances have highlighted some concerns within the squad, including their attacking options.
With first-choice striker Nikola Petković sidelined due to a long-term injury, the club has struggled to find a reliable frontman. Young forward Patrik Matyžonok has yet to establish himself as a consistent starter, prompting the club to bolster their attacking lineup. In addition to Devens, FK Žalgiris recently secured the signing of South Sudanese forward Machop Chol, who brings experience from Major League Soccer (MLS).
More Signings on the Horizon?
With the arrival of Devens and Chol, FK Žalgiris Vilnius has significantly strengthened their frontline, but further reinforcements may still be on the way. The club remains active in the transfer market, and additional signings could follow in the coming days as they aim to solidify their squad for the challenges ahead.
For Devens, this move presents an opportunity to establish himself as a key figure in the attack of Lithuania’s most successful club. Fans will be eager to see if the Brazilian striker can replicate his previous goal-scoring exploits and help propel FK Žalgiris Vilnius to further domestic and European success.