Stefan Stoica has officially returned to FCU Craiova as head coach after an eight-year absence. The 59-year-old, who previously played and managed the club, takes the helm following a stint with CSF Spartanii Sportul Selemet in Moldova’s Liga 2.
This marks Stoica’s fourth time leading the team, having previously served as head coach in the 2004-2005, 2006-2007, and 2018 seasons. His appointment comes as FCU Craiova aims for a fresh start in Liga 4.
In a passionate statement, Stoica expressed his love for the club and its owner, Adrian Mititelu: “If someone had asked me who the right coach for the team’s restart was, I would have said without hesitation that it must be Fane Stoica. Such an adventure requires attachment, heart, and an emotional bond with the team you coach. I’m glad the club’s people understood my unspoken thoughts and appointed me as head coach.”
With a career spanning nearly five decades, Stoica, who celebrated his birthday on June 23, is considered a legendary figure in Craiova football. He made a significant impact in the club’s history, notably scoring the winning goal against Steaua Bucharest on November 30, 1989.
Stoica’s coaching resume includes roles at Omonia Nicosia, Steaua Bucharest, and several clubs in Moldova and Romania, along with experience with youth national teams. He has also been a respected TV analyst in Moldova.
His extensive coaching background and connection to the club position him well for the challenges ahead. Stoica’s last term at FCU Craiova ended in September 2018, and he returns to the club with aspirations of rebuilding the team almost from scratch.
Despite the challenges of playing in Liga 4, Stoica’s commitment to the club is unwavering. FCU Craiova recently participated in the first round of the Romanian Cup but suffered a heavy defeat to ACSO Filiași, losing 0-5 at home.
