Former basketball star Kalnietis seeks to change Lithuanian football's mindset

Mantas Kalnietis, a celebrated former Lithuanian basketball star, is now channeling his competitive spirit into transforming Lithuanian football, focusing on a critical area he believes holds the sport back: player confidence.

Having transitioned from a distinguished basketball career, where he spent a decade playing abroad, Kalnietis now heads the Kaunas Žalgiris football club. He admits that his decision to move into football was driven by a desire to remain in his beloved hometown of Kaunas and spend more time with his family, something he missed during his extensive international basketball career. He found that the principles of team sports are largely transferable, allowing him to apply his experience in his new leadership role.

Kalnietis's primary mission, however, extends beyond on-field results. He is determined to foster a new generation of Lithuanian footballers who possess unwavering self-belief. "My mission is that we believe in ourselves, because I see that in Lithuania, footballers sometimes lack self-confidence and often do not believe that we can do more," Kalnietis stated.

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My mission is that we believe in ourselves, because I see that in Lithuania, footballers sometimes lack self-confidence and often do not believe that we can do more.

This perceived lack of confidence is what most frustrates him about the current state of Lithuanian football. He is actively working to change this mindset, starting with young players. "This attitude is what annoys me and I am trying to change it from childhood, so that we work and raise brave children, and then this will be passed on to the older ones," he explained.

Beyond his role at the football club, Kalnietis also shares his extensive sports knowledge by teaching students. His new rhythm of life, balancing club leadership, academia, and personal challenges, marks a significant shift from the demanding schedule of a professional athlete, allowing him to pursue his vision for a more confident and successful future in Lithuanian sports.

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This attitude is what annoys me and I am trying to change it from childhood, so that we work and raise brave children, and then this will be passed on to the older ones.