FS Jelgava’s former captain Kristers Penkevics has taken a major step in his career, moving abroad for the first time to join Czech top-flight side Zlín. The news came shortly after the New Year, following a breakthrough 2025 season that included his debut for the Latvian national team. In an interview on FS Jelgava’s website, the midfielder discussed how the transfer came about and how he will remember his time in Jelgava.
For Penkevics, the move is both a challenge and an opportunity. “The emotions are great, because this is a big challenge for me and a major step to be able to play in the Czech Republic. It won’t be easy. It will be a test of maturity and character,” he said, noting that the league’s physical demands would push him to grow both as a player and as a person.
He learned of Zlín’s interest while on holiday in Seoul, South Korea. Penkevics was taking a nap when his phone rang with FS Jelgava sporting director Miloslav Brožek informing him of the interest. The midfielder, who has made two appearances for the Latvian national team, did not hesitate and waited for the official contract to sign. Kristers quickly recognized the chance to compete in a stronger league. “I just needed to place myself in this environment to become more visible to others,” he explained.
In 2025, Penkevics was the engine of Jelgava’s midfield, often wearing the captain’s armband. Reflecting on leading a young squad for the first time in his professional career, he described the experience as both an honor and a responsibility. “It was a great privilege, and it showed the trust the coaches and the team had in me. I had never been a captain in a top-flight club before, so it was a new role, and I had to lead by example. It comes with responsibility and pressure, but we were all equals, and anyone could voice their opinion. I just needed to set a standard of fighting spirit,” he said.
One standout moment from the season was a surprising 4:1 away victory over former Virslīga champions RFS, achieved despite several absences in the squad.
Adapting to Czech football will take time. Penkevics described the league as intense and physically demanding, with a strong focus on running and endurance. “It’s still hard to judge how long adaptation will take, because I am still in the process. I am getting to know my teammates, and I have a very experienced squad from which I can learn a lot. Many players are over 30 and have played extensively in the Czech league. From what I’ve heard, football here is less about technique and more about running. Running and fighting spirit dominate, and they use these qualities to win points. I will try to adapt as quickly as possible, though it certainly won’t be easy,” he said.
Penkevics and Zlín traveled to a training camp in Turkey on 14 January to prepare for the second half of the season. The Czech league resumes after the winter break on 1 February, when Penkevics will have a chance to make his official debut when his Zlin will face Slovan Liberec, featuring fellow Latvian Raimonds Krollis.
