In his first interview as a FK Kauno Žalgiris player, the experienced defender Lirim Kastrati spoke about his desire to prove himself, his previous relationship with head coach Željko Sopić, and the negotiations that ultimately brought him to Kaunas.
“I am very grateful and happy to have joined such a solid club,” Kastrati said. “My first impression of the team and everyone around the club has been very positive. I received a warm welcome, and I can’t wait to get started.”
The Kosovo and Italian international arrived in Lithuania while Kauno Žalgiris were away in the Faroe Islands for their UEFA Conference League qualifier. Reflecting on the move, Kastrati revealed that the club’s interest had actually begun a year earlier.
“It all started last year when the club first showed interest in me. In the end, nothing happened at that time, but this year everything came together. I already knew the coach from my previous clubs and had worked with him before. We started talking with the coaching staff, and I really wanted to come here and give everything I have.”
Kastrati also recalled working with Željko Sopić in the past and made it clear that he is ready to fight for a place in the starting lineup.
“I am ready. I believe that the stronger the internal competition within the squad, the higher the overall level of the team. Healthy competition is always a positive thing because it pushes you to give even more and show your best qualities. I think everyone in the squad feels the same way, we all have to prove ourselves on the pitch.”
The defender concluded by describing the qualities he hopes to bring to Kauno Žalgiris.
“I am a quick and aggressive defender. My mentality is that I never give up, no matter the circumstances. I had the privilege of playing at Roma, where I trained with the first team, and the players there taught me a great deal. I have also earned a couple of appearances for the national team, so I believe I have gained valuable experience that I can now bring to Kaunas.”
Source: https://zalgiris.lt/naujienos/fk-kauno-zalgiris-gretas-papildes-l-kastrati-nekantrauju-pradeti-darbus
