Thirty-five-year-old defender and club icon Lukáš Hejda has decided to end his professional career. He will now work in the scouting department at Viktoria Plzeň. In his free time, he plans to continue playing in lower leagues.

He joined Viktoria in 2012. He celebrated five championship titles with the club, played in the Champions League and other unforgettable European matches in the Europa League and Conference League. He proudly wore the captain´s armband, leading the team on the pitch and in the dressing room. Now, at the age of 35, he has decided to end his rich and successful professional career. In the spring, he will only play as an amateur player for FC Křimice in the 4th league.

"I think it´s the right time. My career has been rich, I´ve had my greatest successes here at Viktoria, and I can´t imagine ever wearing a jersey other than red and blue in professional football. That´s why I´ve made this decision," Lukáš Hejda explained.

The great news for all Viktoria fans is that he will remain part of the club. Specifically, he will be a member of the scouting department led by Jan Říčka and Jiří Krejčí.

"I was attracted by this offer, and I am glad that I will remain at the club that has my heart and that I will be able to continue to help it and pass on the experience I have gained during my career," he added.

"Lukáš Hejda is one of Viktoria´s great figures. We have been discussing for some time that he would become involved in the running of the club after his career ends. Specifically, he will take on the role of one of the scouts in this department. I am glad that we will continue to work together, and I wish Lukáš every success and fulfillment in his new role," said Adolf Šádek, Chairman of the Board and CEO of the club, adding that Lukáš Hejda will officially say goodbye to all fans during a selected spring home game. "He certainly deserves a standing ovation from the entire Doosan Arena," concluded Adolf Šádek.