About

About FK Minija

FK Minija is a football club based in Kretinga, Lithuania, founded in 1962. The club’s golden era came in 1964, when it finished 3rd in theLithuanian A Class and won the Lithuanian Football Cup. After Lithuania regained independence, Minija briefly played in the top division in 1993 before dropping to lower leagues. The club was re-established in 2017 and has been competing in the LFF First League since 2019.

In 2025, FK Minija was acquired by French footballer Moussa Dembélé. With growing potential, modernizing infrastructure, and investments in data analytics and youth development, the club is on a professional path with clear ambitions for the future.

History

Founded in 1962, FK Minija is one of the oldest and most respected football clubs in western Lithuania. The club quickly rose to national prominence, achieving its greatest success in 1964 by finishing third in the Lithuanian A klasė and winning the Lithuanian Football Cup — the most significant trophy in its history.

Football in Kretinga, however, dates back even earlier, with local teams active since the 1920s. After Lithuania regained independence, FK Minija experienced a challenging period, including a brief stint in the top division in 1993, followed by financial struggles and relegations. In 2016, the club was dissolved due to bankruptcy.

Re-established in 2017 as VšĮ Kretingos Minija, the club began a new chapter with a renewed focus on youth development, local talent, and competitive growth. Since then, FK Minija has returned to the LFF Pirma lyga, steadily rebuilding its identity and aiming for long-term sustainability and success. The club plays its home matches at the Kretinga City Stadium and remains a proud symbol of football tradition and community spirit in the region.

Mission

At FK Minija, our mission is to develop high-level football grounded in tradition, integrity, and community pride. We are committed to nurturing local talent, inspiring the next generation of athletes, and promoting a culture of excellence both on and off the pitch. As Kretinga’s most historic club, we strive to represent our city with professionalism, determination, and unity.

Vision

Our vision is to establish FK Minija as a respected force in Lithuanian football, known for sustainable growth, youth development, and deep-rooted community engagement. We aim to compete at the highest national levels, invest in our infrastructure, and become a modern football institution that bridges our rich past with an ambitious future.

FK Minija staff

FK Minija’s coaching staff is led by newly appointed head coach Ricardo Rezende Freitas, who brings fresh ideas and international experience to the team. Together with his dedicated assistants, he focuses on developing player potential, implementing modern training methods, and building a strong winning mentality.