Prague – Ladislav Krejčí, the 26-year-ancient defender currently on loan at Wolverhampton Wanderers from Girona, has been named captain of the Czech Republic national team ahead of their crucial World Cup playoff matches. The appointment, confirmed today following a team meeting in Prague, marks a significant shift in leadership for the national side, with Krejčí taking over from Tomáš Souček, who remains a key player for the team.
Krejčí previously captained Sparta Prague, leading them to league titles in the 2022/23 and 2023/24 seasons before his move abroad. Now, he’s been entrusted with the armband under new head coach Miroslav Koubek. The Czech Republic will face the Republic of Ireland in a semifinal playoff match this Thursday at Eden Arena in Prague. A victory would set up a final showdown at Letná Stadium on March 31st against the winner of the Denmark vs. North Macedonia tie, with a place at the World Cup on the line.
The decision to change captains stemmed from an incident following a 6-0 victory over Gibraltar in November. The Czech Football Association sanctioned Souček, removing the captaincy for one match due to the team’s decision not to acknowledge their most ardent fans in the “kotel” section of the stadium after the final whistle. Although initially presented as a one-game sanction, Koubek indicated last week that the change could be more permanent. “Is it for a longer period? Probably yes. Changing a captain after one match like socks isn’t optimal. A longer period means more matches,” Koubek stated during a press conference announcing the squad.
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— Česká fotbalová reprezentace (@ceskarepre_cz) March 23, 2026
Krejčí expressed his gratitude and sense of responsibility upon receiving the news. “I greatly value the captain’s armband; it’s a great honor and responsibility for me. I’m looking forward to what lies ahead for all of us,” he said during the evening’s Footballer of the Year awards ceremony, where he finished third. “At the same time, I’m a little sorry about the situation that led to the change. It wasn’t pleasant, but that’s how it is. We know what awaits us. I believe we will approach it as we should and fulfill our dream (to qualify for the World Cup).”
The new captain doesn’t anticipate the added responsibility hindering his performance. “It depends on how you allow yourself to perceive it. It’s still fresh, so I haven’t had much time to feel about it. But I’ve approached everything the same way for many years, and I believe that will lead to success,” Krejčí added. He was a natural candidate for the role, having demonstrated leadership qualities throughout his career.
Krejčí began his career at Zbrojovka Brno, progressing through their youth system before making his professional debut in 2016. He then moved to Sparta Prague in 2019, where he established himself as a key player and captain, leading the club to back-to-back league titles. His summer move to Wolverhampton Wanderers, on loan from Girona, saw him quickly become a leader in a team currently struggling in the English Premier League. He earned his first cap for the Czech national team in a World Cup qualifying playoff four years ago and has since made 23 appearances, scoring three goals.
Wolverhampton Wanderers currently occupy the last place in the English Premier League, a challenging situation Krejčí acknowledges. “It’s not a pleasant situation. At the first team meeting (with the national team) on Thursday, coach Koubek already wrote us off, saying we wouldn’t make it. But I like these situations. Mathematically, there’s still a chance (for survival). We’ve found some form recently, and I believe we’ll continue in it,” he stated.
Krejčí: I Value This Greatly
The appointment of Krejčí signals a new chapter for the Czech Republic national team as they navigate a critical period in their World Cup qualification campaign. The team faces a tough challenge against Ireland, but with Krejčí at the helm, they will be hoping to capitalize on home advantage and secure a place in the final playoff round. The stakes are high, and the nation will be looking to its new captain to inspire them to victory.
Ladislav Krejčí’s journey to captaining his country is a testament to his dedication, leadership, and talent. From his early days at Zbrojovka Brno to his successful spell at Sparta Prague and his current challenge at Wolverhampton Wanderers, he has consistently demonstrated the qualities of a true leader. Now, he has the opportunity to lead the Czech Republic to the World Cup, a dream he and his teammates are determined to achieve.
The Czech Republic’s playoff path is a two-legged affair. Should they overcome Ireland in Prague, they will host the winner of the Denmark versus North Macedonia matchup at Letná Stadium on March 31st. The pressure will be immense, but Krejčí and his team are prepared to fight for their place at the tournament. The upcoming matches will be a true test of their character and determination.
Fans can follow the Czech Republic’s progress on the official website of the Czech Football Association (https://www.ceskareprezentace.cz/) and through official social media channels. The match against Ireland on Thursday will be a pivotal moment for Czech football, and all eyes will be on Ladislav Krejčí as he leads his team into battle.
