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Real Salt Lake's longtime captain and cultural leader, Damir Kreilach, has announced his departure from the team after six seasons. In a letter posted on RSL's website, Kreilach explained that he is leaving for "a new challenge" and described the decision as the most difficult one he has ever made. With 55 goals, Kreilach is RSL's third-highest goalscorer of all time and has led the team in goals for three of his six seasons. He has also guided the team to the playoffs five times

Sporting director Kurt Schmid expressed the club's gratitude for Kreilach's impact, leadership, and service over the years, calling the goodbye "difficult." RSL declined Kreilach's team option for 2024, making him a free agent along with Scott Caldwell and Danny Musovski. The club is expected to announce Kreilach's next destination as early as Thursday. Joining RSL in 2018, the 34-year-old Croatian previously played for HNK Rijeka in Croatia and Union Berlin in Germany. Although he missed most of the 2022 season due to a back injury, Kreilach made a successful return in 2023, contributing four goals and an assist in 15 MLS starts. He was also co-winner of the U.S

Open Cup Golden Boot award, scoring four goals. RSL's social media post paid tribute to Kreilach, highlighting his influence and legacy both on and off the pitch. Kreilach's memorable game-tying karate kick goal in the 2018 playoffs against LAFC earned him the nickname "The Kreilach Kid." In his letter, Kreilach assured that he would always consider himself part of the RSL family and wished the team the best for the future. Declining Kreilach's option for 2024 not only frees up over $1 million in salary but also potentially opens up another designated player spot alongside Chicho Arango and Jefferson Savarino. Real Salt Lake fans can look forward to the upcoming season with anticipation, as the team continues to build on its rich history.