Alexandru Albu, the 32-year-old midfielder recently signed by CSA Steaua, shared insights in his first interview following his transfer to Ghencea. He described his choice of the team led by Daniel Oprița, outlined his objectives for the upcoming season, and discussed the offers he received during the summer.
In his dialogue with GSP.ro, Albu revealed challenges faced during his final months at Unirea Slobozia, a team that faced relegation from the Superliga and subsequently entered insolvency.
The midfielder stated that players were aware as early as March that the team would not secure a license for the top tier.
VIDEO | Alexandru Albu Talks About Unirea Slobozia’s Relegation: “We Knew Since March We Wouldn’t Get the License!”
Albu elaborated on the financial difficulties at Unirea Slobozia, indicating that players were owed three months of salaries and bonuses.
– Hello, Alex! What prompted you to join Steaua? – My wife and I made this decision together. We evaluated all options and deemed this the best choice for our family. I am close to home, my wife, and daughters. I have been away a lot lately and it’s hard to see your children growing up from a distance.
– How is it here? What do you think of the team? How have preparations been? – I found a very good team and a coach spoken of highly. I know many of the players; the conditions are excellent, and training has been intense. I aim to stay healthy and help the team have a successful season.
“Our Objective is the Play-Offs and Top Positions”
– Given that the team cannot be promoted, what is your objective? – I am aware of the situation, but I hope it will be resolved. Our goal is to reach the playoffs and secure top positions. Personally, I want to work hard, enjoy football, and be close to my family.
– Have you received offers from abroad or from Superliga or Liga 2? – Yes, I had offers from abroad and Liga 1, but it wasn’t worth it to leave. I went through a tough time at Slobozia, and now the club has entered insolvency. I wanted to choose stability for my family.
– How was the separation from Unirea Slobozia, and how disappointing was the relegation? – It was and still is disappointing, as it leaves a bitter taste. I am at peace with myself, having given my all for the team. The situation was complicated; I knew we didn’t have a license for Liga 1, and many matters were beyond our control.
– How long had you known? – Since March, the beginning of the month. In such conditions, it’s challenging to stay motivated, but we had a united group and focused on what we could control. Now a new chapter begins, and I am confident it will be good.
– Were there two months of unpaid salaries? – Three months, plus bonuses. We were promised our payments would come, but then insolvency occurred. Unfortunately, such things happen in Romanian football. Players are criticized, but few understand what we go through. We must do our job and remain professionals.
– How did Rapid fans receive your transfer to Steaua? Do they think you betrayed them? – I have not betrayed anyone; I am a professional player doing my job for the team I am with. I have many friends from Rapid who told me they are happy for me, and I wish them well in the league. As long as you give your all on the field and show attitude, determination, and ambition, I don’t think there are grounds for such reproaches.
Albu played for Rapid from 2021 to 2024, during which he became a key player for the team, making 103 appearances and scoring 12 goals and providing 6 assists. After leaving Rapid, he played for Unirea Slobozia. Rated at €250,000 by Transfermarkt, Albu’s career also includes stints with Concordia Chiajna, FC Botoșani, UTA Arad, Unirea Slobozia, Al-Safa, and Al-Hazem.
