Does he continue in the Superliga in the new season or does he go to Hungary? Backstage talks for a new career move
Alexandru Mateiu (36 years old) is free of contract after parting with Petrolul Ploiești, and the midfielder is ready for a new commitment starting next season. Several teams are already interested in the winner of the Cup and Supercup with Craiova University.
The end of the current season is almost over, but Alexandru Mateiu has already left Petrolul Ploiești two stages before the end of the play-out.
Even the wife of the 36-year-old player announced his departure from Ploiesti a week ago, after Mateiu reached an agreement with the club's management to be able to terminate three weeks earlier than the final term of the contract.
Steel and Hermannstadt would like Mateiu
At the moment, the midfielder is at home, in Brașov, and several teams have already shown interest in the possibility of a contract from the summer of this year.
According to GSP.RO information, Oțelul Galați put him on the list, being considered “an experienced player, who would help a lot in defense and organization”as described by the Galatians. “Direct game, disciplined, balanced midfielder”, is the characterization.
There is another Super League team that has placed Mateiu on the waiting list, depending on the plans and budget available for the new season.
It's about Hermannstadt, who are going through a difficult situation at the moment, with question marks over staying in the elite.
Even in the second tier, Alexandru Mateiu would represent an option for the Sibiu team, chas could attack the return to the elite from the first year, betting on experienced players, able to bring an addition to the locker room, especially in the relationship with the young players.
Variant from Hungary
GSP.RO information also indicates the possibility of Mateiu going abroad, to Hungary. The footballer discussed the desire to play for a team from a neighboring country, depending on the opportunities and the clubs' interest in his experience.
Alexandru Mateiu has only played for three teams so far: FC Brașov, U Craiova and Petrolul. Photo: facebook/fcpetroluloficial
Zalaegerszegi (5th place in the Hungarian championship) and Mezokovesd-Zsory (4th place in the second league) are two of the teams mentioned.
“It remains to be seen how the situation will evolve in the coming period. He contributes to the balance of the team, having a good sense of position that helps to quickly transition between defense and attack.” is the characterization made by one of those who proposed Mateiu in Hungary.
Throughout his career, Mateiu played at FC Brașov (2007–2014), Universitatea Craiova (2014–2024) and Petrolul Ploiești (2024–2026). He has two Romanian Cups and a Super Cup in his record, all won with Craiova University.
