Article by Mihai Șovei – Published Sunday, February 15, 2026, 4:58 p.m. / Updated Sunday, February 15, 2026, 5:01 p.m.
UTA Arad prevailed on Sunday against FC Botoșani, score 2-1, in a match in the round with number 27 of the Super League. The drama reached maximum heights at the end of the game, when Valentin Costache (27 years old) converted a penalty kick, establishing the final score of the meeting. It was the last match he played in the Aradenian shirt.
UTA Arad and Noah, a club from Armenia, have agreed on the transfer of Costache, so he will leave the club from Banat. At the end of today's match, Vali spoke about the emotions of the match day, but also about the time spent in Arad.
Valentin Costache: “A very loaded match”
“It was my last match. The clubs have understood each other, they have an agreement. Tomorrow at 6 am I have a flight from Budapest. It was a match with a lot of charge, very big emotions. The people at Noah wouldn't let me play, but I chose to do it, I talked mystery and I chose to do the job to the end. I think that's what I did, I gave everything I could to the last drop for these people, these supporters, this club. I am happy and wish them continued success.
I didn't have this thought that I was missing out. I thought it would be good and I would be happy with the team and the fans. It was a special, beautiful time. Arad was special, I will always say that. There were good and bad, as in the life of any footballer. It was a very good time here. I thank the supporters, who welcomed and supported me, the coaches, my colleagues, because it is clear that without them I would not have had so many successes“, said Valentin Costache, in a flash interview, at Digi Sport.
Valentin Costache // photo: UTA
