Article by Cosmin Nistor – Published Monday, May 18, 2026, 7:31 p.m. / Updated Monday, May 18, 2026, 7:31 p.m.
The director of the CSA Steaua Football Academy, George Ogăraru, sent a public message after Craiova University won the title of Romanian champion and completed a season in which it succeeded in the domestic event.
The former international wanted to highlight the career of David Matei, a player who grew up in League 2 at CSA Steaua, who became an important piece in the gearing of the team from Bănie.
George Ogăraru, message about David Matei after the title of Craiova
Former FCSB player and current director of the CSA Steaua academy, Ogăraru posted on social media a message dedicated to the “under” midfielder of the University of Craiova, along with several photos from Matei's time in Ghencea, emphasizing the academy's contribution to his training.
Congratulations, David Matei!
Good luck on your way to the Romanian National Team!
Steaua Bucharest Football Academy gave Romanian football a champion!– transmitted George Ogăraru.
In the summer of 2025, the midfielder made the step to the first league, after Craiova University paid approximately 75,000 euros for his transfer. The move was intensively discussed at the time, but the club from Bănie bet on him including to fulfill the U21 rule under the command of Mirel Rădoi, the University technician at the time.
Since then, David Matei has become a constant presence in the Olten team, under the command of Filipe Coelho, ticking off 36 matches in all competitions, in which he managed 5 goals and 2 decisive assists. According to transfermarkt.com, his market share is 900,000 euros.
David Matei with his parents and the two trophies won in Craiova in 2026: the Romanian Cup and the title of champion. Photo: Cristi Preda (GSP)
CSA Steaua is still “blocked” in League 2
CSA Steaua does not have the right to promotion in the Superleague because it operates as a club under public law, directly subordinated to the Ministry of National Defense. According to the Sports Law no. 69/2000, only clubs organized as private law entities can participate in professional competitions.
In addition, the FRF and LPF regulations state that departmental or state teams cannot obtain the necessary license to participate in the first league, a rule also aligned with UEFA's requirements regarding the independence of professional clubs.
