“He surpassed me in every way”

The former footballer from Dinamo or Ceahlăul showed confidence in the future of the national team.

Matei Ilie made his debut in the national team: “We are a happy, fulfilled family”

“Thank you very much from the family! We are a happy, fulfilled family and we are happy that my son has surpassed me in all aspects.

Indeed, he was a reserve at the end of the season at CFR. The current selector saw in Matei a player with potential and who is constantly growing. He was no longer a consistent starter, but importantly he remained a player who waited his turn. He proved that everyone from CFR and the national team can rely on him.

A beautiful future is announced for the national team! If we look at all the players that have evolved, I think we have a bright future.

Louis Munteanu's goal was a crowning achievement in America, he will have a good career. He scored a lot in the last few games in America and is on a good way. I am confident,” said Costel Ilie on the GSP Live Special show.

• Matei Ilie started football at Piatra Neamț, and then continued his junior years in Italy at teams such as Padua or Verona. In Padova he made the step to the seniors, and then he was transferred by CFR Cluj in 2023. Since then he played 97 matches for CFR Cluj, scored 5 goals and provided 4 decisive assists.

• Matei Ilie was a key component in Romania's junior teams: he has one match at U17 level, 7 at U20 level and 12 matches and 2 goals at U21 level.

As a player, Costel Ilie performed for Ceahlăul, Dinamo and FC Vaslui. After retiring, he worked as a coach: he was principal at Ceahlăul, Aerostar, Rapidul Suceava, Vaslui, Modelu. He was also second in teams such as ASA, Concordia, Dunărea Călărași, Astra Giurgiu. He was part of Dan Alexa's staff.