Continuing preparations for the season's second half and its biggest challenges, Gintra have signed two more players: midfielder Monica Hagstrom, soon to turn 24, and Silja Jaatinen, 22, who can play in defence or midfield. The Finnish newcomers arrive directly from AIK Stockholm in Sweden's top women's division. Gintra bought out their existing contracts by mutual agreement.
Both have arrived in Šiauliai and joined training. Hagstrom chose number 14, while Jaatinen will wear number 9.
They share head coach Olli-Pekka Ojala's nationality but have never previously played under him.
"We were on opposite sides. I played against his KuPS team in Finland. I know he's dedicated to football and demands everything in training and matches, while remaining friendly and supportive," Jaatinen said.
"I haven't played for him either, but I've heard many positive things. His presence at Gintra gave me another reason to come confidently," Hagstrom added.
Hagstrom, from the small Finnish town of Kannus, explained that she and Silja only became teammates in Sweden, having previously faced each other. Jaatinen spent much of her career at HJK Helsinki; Hagstrom represented Åland United for four seasons from 2018.
"We played for different Finnish clubs and moved to Sweden together. The league there is strong: every team is competitive, the players are quick and physically strong, and matches are played at a dynamic pace," Hagstrom said.
After their first session, the players welcomed the team's friendliness and highlighted the training intensity.
"Before arriving, we spoke with the coach about settling in at full capacity quickly, because Baltic League matches are imminent. There are many individually strong players here. We must combine everyone's strengths into a collective result," said left-footed Jaatinen.
The newcomers aim to reach Finland's senior national team soon and hope for Champions League success.
"We've represented youth national teams and believe we can play for the senior team in future. Right now, we're focused on getting to know our new team and the coming challenges. The Champions League naturally provides extra motivation," they said.
Both could make their Gintra debuts this weekend against Flora Tallinn in the Baltic League.
Šiauliai hosts UEFA Women's Champions League qualifying on 4–7 September. In Group 3, the Lithuanian champions compete for one place in the main tournament against legendary Scottish club Celtic, Finnish champions KuPS Kuopio and Moldovan league winners Agarista CSF.
Gintra face Agarista CSF in the semi-final. Stand with the team: every supporter's presence will be especially important! Buy your tickets now through this link.
