HNK Rijeka announced that Damir Kreilach, the legendary captain, has retired from professional football. Kreilach played 146 games for Rijeka and became the manager for loans and player development. Damir Kreilach took over the function in the sports segment of HNK Rijeka as manager for loans and player development on Friday, January 16, which officially ended his playing career. Kreilach made his debut for Rijeka on April 12, 2008, in a away game against Osijek under coach Zlatko Dalić, and his last appearance was on August 16, 2025, in a home game against Dinamo, which was his 146th appearance for Rijeka. Kreilach grew up on Kvarner and was the captain of the pioneer, cadet, junior and finally the senior team of Rijeka. And now he has announced the end of his playing career. But his decision was not easy. So Kreilach announced in an emotional letter that he was retiring from professional football. Kreilach thanked all his teammates, coaches, doctors, club officials and fans who followed him throughout his career. Special thanks to his family for their unconditional support at all times. Kreilach will continue to work at HNK Rijeka as manager for loans and player development.