Niks Sliede

Niks Sliede is a Latvian defender who developed at the Liepāja Football School before moving to Rīgas FS as he approached senior football. Standing 2.03 metres tall, Sliede established himself as a centre-back and used his size to compete for headers and defend crosses. In 2022, he gained top-flight experience on loan with FK Tukums 2000/Telms, making 30 appearances. He then joined Valmiera FC in February 2023 and spent two seasons with the club, contributing goals while continuing to develop his positioning and discipline. Sliede returned to Rīgas FS in early 2025 and became part of the squad at the Latvian champions. His progress earned a senior Latvia debut against England on 24 March 2025, following representation at under-17, under-18, under-19 and under-21 levels. Niks Sliede remains a developing centre-back whose aerial reach and ball-winning approach complement his continuing work on decision-making and build-up play.