Damir Kreilach signs new deal with RSL, set for extended stay

Damir Kreilach is staying at Real Salt Lake.

Not that it sounds like there was risk of that changing in the short-term, but the 31-year-old Croatian midfielder who cut his teeth in Germany has signed a new contract at RSL.

That contract extends through 2022 and has an option for 2023, said an RSL-issued press release.

In a club-issued release, Kreilach described the signing as being “not only about soccer.”

“From the moment I came to Real Salt Lake, it felt like I was at home. Everyone welcomed me and my family. At the end of the day, it’s not only about soccer. It’s about life. I’m happy to stay here and continue to be part of the RSL family,” Kreilach said. “I want to thank all of my teammates and coaches as well as staff and fans. I’m looking forward to giving my best on and off the field and be a role model for other young players. And of course I’m looking forward to winning something for RSL because that is what this club and these fans deserve.”

General manager Elliott Fall said Kreilach has been an exemplary signing as an international player.

“When you’re out signing an international player and investing heavily in that player and want them to come in and make an impact, he’s exactly what you’re looking for. He’s a professional. He’s a culture setter. He leads by example. And he produces. He steps up in every big moment. You look at the big moments in the last three years for RSL, Damir plays a role in nearly every one of them. That says all you need to know about him.”

RSL coach Freddy Juarez:

“He loves the club and gives everything every single day that he shows up for the club, for his teammates and for the staff. That’s a unique characteristic to have and we are lucky to have him.”