After winning their 20th consecutive Lithuanian title and 23rd overall, Gintra will seek a new head coach. Finnish specialist Olli-Pekka Ojala, who took charge in April, has decided for personal reasons to end his spell in Lithuania, return home and pursue a new individual coaching project.
Known to the team as Opo, he led Gintra to A League gold, Baltic League bronze and a Champions League qualifying final, where they fought honourably but lost 0–2 to legendary Scottish club Celtic.
From 2019 to 2023, Ojala coached Finnish women's football powerhouse KuPS Kuopio, making his Champions League debut in 2022. That elite competition brought Gintra and KuPS together for the first time.
In his farewell, Opo thanked the entire club for warmly welcoming him and his family to Šiauliai. Although they spent only seven months here, the period meant a great deal.
"Every story and adventure has an ending. This one is full of pride. Coaching is much more than tactics or technique; it's about togetherness and helping others. This wonderful group from across the world achieved something in these seven months by growing from individuals into a united team. A smile is the best way to end this Lithuanian adventure. Gintra and Lithuania will always hold a large place in our family's hearts. It's time for a break from professional football, but I'll return to win more trophies," Opo wrote.
Director Mantas Radavičius said Opo introduced many new ideas and raised standards.
"He leaves a clear mark on our club. In a short time he introduced a different training culture, improved communication and united the team even when things went wrong on the pitch. The atmosphere and mutual support were special. We knew at the closing event that family circumstances had led him to return to Finland. We respect his choice, wish him success in his new project and say 'see you' rather than 'goodbye'. Circumstances change, and perhaps he will lead Gintra again one day," said Radavičius, thanking him for complete dedication and professionalism.
The coach's message:
