Defender Ladislav Krejčí will remain captain of the Czech Republic national football team under head coach Santi Denia, confirming his leadership role ahead of the upcoming Nations League campaign. The Wolverhampton defender, who recently managed minor physical concerns, is expected to be available for Saturday’s opening fixture against Croatia in Prague.
Krejčí assumed the captaincy in late March when former manager Miroslav Koubek appointed him ahead of the World Cup playoffs, succeeding midfielder Tomáš Souček. Following Koubek’s departure after the tournament, Denia retained the Wolverhampton defender with the full backing of the football association and the squad.
“It was my decision,” Denia said during a press conference in Prague. “I decided that Láďa would continue as captain, and then everyone in the association, Pavel Nedvěd, and all the players agreed with it.”
Leadership Qualities and Future Planning
Denia emphasized that Krejčí’s influence extends well beyond his on-field performances, pointing to his presence in the dressing room as a vital asset for the national team’s transition.
“We are looking to the future, I think Láďa is the best example for the next generation,” Denia said. “He is an excellent player, but also a great leader for the team and also great in the dressing room. That is the most important thing for me as a coach.”
Krejčí has earned 30 caps and scored six goals for the Czech senior national team. His combination of defensive stability and vocal leadership convinced the coaching staff to keep the armband on him despite managerial changes.
Fitness Update Ahead of Croatia Clash
Krejčí’s status had briefly drawn concern after minor calf tightness forced him to miss Wolverhampton’s weekend fixture in the English second tier. Although he was managed carefully during the opening days of the international training camp, he returned to team training.
“I had minor complications,” Krejčí explained to reporters. “I had to miss the last match in England since I jumped into it after some pause. I had a slight overload, I felt it here too. But it is on a very good path, so I feel good.”
The Czech squad opens its new Nations League schedule against Croatia on Saturday in Prague, where Krejčí is expected to anchor the defense and lead the side from the opening whistle.
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