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One of the youngest members of the VMFD "Žalgiris" team, Donatas Kazlauskas, is celebrating his 18th birthday.
Having become an adult, the forward has established himself well in the team. Early career success did not make Donatas rest on his laurels. He continues to work hard and demands the best results from himself.
The young talent of the VMFD "Žalgiris" team and Lithuanian football talked about his childhood, youthful maximalism, the players who inspire him, and his impressions in the capital's team.
Congratulations on reaching adulthood! Will you have time to celebrate your birthday?
Probably not, as an important match awaits on Sunday against Marijampolė's "Sūduva." On the other hand, if we win, we will definitely have to celebrate a double holiday.
When did you start attending football training sessions? Have you tried other sports?
I started attending training sessions at the same time as school. From the very first day, I tried to participate in every practice because I really wanted to play football.
As a child, I, like most children, used to attend not only one but several activities at the same time. Besides football, I also attended dance classes.
Of course, my parents had a big influence on that. I remember my parents sometimes scared me, saying that if I didn't study well, I wouldn't be able to go to training sessions. As for the dances, they never said anything (laughs).
Did you have a football idol in your childhood? Maybe you have one now?
In childhood, I was most impressed by Cristiano Ronaldo's game. Now I don't have one player as an idol. I really like players like Angel Di Maria or Luis Suarez, as they can deceive several defenders at once.
At the age of just 14, you left for the National Football Academy in Kaunas. How was it for you to start an independent life at such a young age?
It wasn't as difficult as it may seem from the outside. The academy took very good care of us, so there were no major worries. It provided all the conditions for a comfortable life. As I have said before, I have to thank them for now being able to play for "Žalgiris".
Which youth national team did you enjoy playing for the most?
I enjoyed representing my peers' national team the most. Being there, we all lived and trained together. We got along great with each other, so the atmosphere in the team was very good.
How is football different in "Žalgiris," youth national teams, and the National Football Academy?
I don't see any big differences between these teams. They all rely on a similar playing scheme. The only thing that affects me directly is that in "Žalgiris" I play on the wing, while in youth national teams, I usually played in the attacking midfield.
You were attracted to "Žalgiris" by the ambitions of the big club. Are you satisfied with the team's performance at the beginning of the season?
The team's results satisfy me, but we certainly need to improve our game. This is especially true for me because I haven't played in any official matches as I want and can.
Which match was the most difficult?
I think the toughest match was against Gargždai's "Banga." They are a very tough and well-organized team.
How do you evaluate your performance at the start of the season?
I rate my game poorly. I lose too many balls and make too many mistakes. If I want to be useful to the team, I must reduce these mistakes by at least half.
Have you ever worked with a foreign coach? What impression do Damir Petravičius' training sessions and team management leave on you?
Yes, I have encountered many coaches of various nationalities. However, our current coach, Damir Petravičius, probably surpasses them all with his strictness. During training, we dedicate a lot of time and effort to physical fitness. I would like to play more football, but the coach knows what he's doing, and I hope his methods will bring victories to the team.
What do you enjoy most doing on the field?
My favorite part of the game is scoring goals. I also really enjoy dribbling past opponents.
In statistical categories, you always rank among the players who provoke the most opponent fouls. What determines your aggressive playing style?
I think my personal qualities have an influence on that. I always try to play aggressively, but sometimes I overdo it.
Which aspects of the game would you like to improve?
I would most like to improve my game with my head and finishing attacks. I work a lot on these aspects during extra training sessions.
Was it difficult to integrate into the "Žalgiris" team?
Not really. The team was not unfamiliar to me from the very beginning - there were several familiar players in it. The other team members were friendly and pleasant, so there were never any problems or disagreements.
Do you have any superstitions before matches?
I have one and it's very simple. Before going onto the field, the most important thing is to have a good haircut (laughs).
How is life in the capital? Do you miss Kaunas?
I miss my friends from Kaunas who remained there, but I am happy with the move to the capital. The city of Vilnius is much nicer, and the bustling life there is much more fun.
How do you manage to balance studies and training? Do you have time for hobbies? What else do you like to do besides football?
Currently, I am arranging documents for a school change. If everything goes well, I should continue my studies at Vilnius "Ozo" Gymnasium.
There is a little time for hobbies, but it is much more difficult to find the energy for them. I especially like going to a good movie, eating delicious food, or skiing in the winter.
Callum Elliott said that the most important things in life for him are football and girls. What about you?
Football is also the most important thing in my life. Well, as for girls... who can't like them?
If you could choose any team in the world to play for, which one would you choose?
"Manchester United". I have been supporting this team since childhood. Recently, I had the chance to visit their training base myself. It was something unreal.
Which national team will you support in the European Championship?
I will support two teams: Spain and England.
