At a press conference held today by the club, Lithuanian football club Žalgiris officially introduced Andrius Skerla as the new head coach of its men’s team. The appointment marks a significant step for the club as it seeks stability and renewed success during a challenging period.
A Swift and Decisive Appointment
Club director Mindaugas Kasperūnas revealed that Skerla was the first candidate considered when searching for a solution. According to Kasperūnas, the decision came together rapidly thanks to mutual enthusiasm.
“We were looking for answers in a difficult situation. The first name that came to mind was Andrius Skerla. We truly wanted him, and once we saw his strong desire to join, only technical details remained. His motivation was the decisive factor. We reached an agreement within minutes,” said the director.
Skerla has signed a contract that will keep him at the club until the end of the 2027 season.
Balancing Club and National Duties
Currently also serving as head coach of Lithuania’s U-21 national team, Skerla’s appointment required coordination with the Lithuanian Football Federation. Over the weekend, Žalgiris secured permission for him to take on both roles simultaneously.
The agreement allows Skerla to continue working with the national youth team until the end of the year, reflecting a cooperative approach between the federation and the club. Both sides emphasized their shared goal of strengthening Lithuanian football.
A Personal and Professional Homecoming
For Skerla, the opportunity carries deep personal meaning. A Vilnius native, he began his playing career at Žalgiris and later returned to finish it there. He also took his first steps in coaching at the club as an assistant.
“When Žalgiris comes calling, no Lithuanian coach would want to refuse. This is my team. I grew up in Vilnius watching the legendary Žalgiris, started my career here, and even made my national team debut while playing for this club,” Skerla said.
He also highlighted the influence of former coaches he worked alongside, crediting them with shaping his path toward becoming a head coach.
Continuity in the Coaching Staff
One of Skerla’s first priorities was maintaining continuity within the coaching staff. He specifically requested that Rolandas Džiaukštas remain part of the team.
“Rolandas knows the players well and will be a great support for me and the entire staff. I’m very pleased he decided to stay,” Skerla noted.
Kasperūnas added that building a strong internal team is central to the club’s long-term vision. “We aim to assemble a ‘dream team’, not just among players, but within the coaching staff. This is the first step in that direction,” he said.
Immediate Goals: Stability and Results
Looking ahead, Skerla emphasized that his primary focus is stabilizing the team’s performance and returning to winning ways.
“There’s no shortage of words, but everything must be shown on the pitch. Our first goal is to stabilize our game. We have enough quality players to achieve that. Time is limited, so the work must be done on the training ground,” he stated.
Skerla has already begun his work, leading his first training session on Wednesday. His debut match as head coach will take place on Friday evening, when Žalgiris hosts Banga Gargždai at home.
Source: https://fkzalgiris.lt/pristatytas-naujasis-treneris-a-skerla-ir-jo-stabas/
