UTA is in mourning following the unexpected death of Radu Mărginean, a former defensive midfielder for the team, who passed away tragically on Tuesday evening at the age of 43. The news has left the local football community in shock, as expressed by Claudiu Drăgan, a former striker for UTA.
Initial reports suggest that Mărginean died after falling while descending the stairs from the technical room serving the MPA Pool facility, which he owned near Arad. It is believed that he sustained a head injury from the fall, according to local news sources.
In a phone call with Gazeta this morning, Drăgan, who is now involved in the club’s scouting department, spoke emotionally about the tragedy that claimed Mărginean’s life. He described the news as a thunderbolt to the community in Arad, having known Mărginean well over the years as they worked closely together within the academy.
Claudiu Drăgan Reflects on the Loss: “It Leaves You Speechless, It’s Tragic”
“Unfortunately, Radu is no longer with us… May God rest his soul. I do not have other details; we are waiting for more information, and I believe an autopsy will be performed,” Drăgan stated. “He was involved with our U18 and U17 teams, so this tragedy has deeply affected the entire club and everyone who knew him, as he was an extraordinary person. We would meet regularly at the club for meetings, and it feels unimaginable. It leaves you speechless!”
Mărginean’s family was present at the time of the incident, and he was reportedly working at the pool facility alongside his wife and father. Drăgan remarked, “It’s very tragic what happened. He was younger than me; we never played together at UTA. When I left, I don’t think he had debuted yet, but he trained with the first team of UTA.”
“May you rest in peace, Radu! A remarkable man, friend, coach, and footballer. Gone too soon, too unfairly.” – Adrian Dulcea, a close friend of Radu Mărginean
Radu Mărginean: A Promising Youth International
Radu Mărginean had a notable career, appearing in 135 matches in Romania’s top division while playing for clubs such as FC Bihor, UTA Arad, CFR Cluj, and Gloria Bistrița. He was part of the U21 national team alongside esteemed players like Marius Constantin and Gabriel Tamaș.
“This evening, the UTA family received heartbreaking news. Radu Mărginean, a former player and one of the most respected footballers from Arad’s generation, has passed away at just 43 years old. Mărginean was part of one of the most talented generations of Arad footballers since 1989 and played a crucial role in UTA’s promotion to the top division in 2002. After retiring, he remained close to our club, working as a coach in the UTA Academy and helping to develop new generations of players. Our thoughts are with Radu’s family and friends. May he rest in peace!” – Statement from UTA released on Tuesday evening
