Marius Baciu, the head coach of FCSB, expressed uncertainty regarding the position of 18-year-old Alexandru Stoian ahead of the team’s match on July 26, acknowledging the young player’s impressive talent.
The upcoming match against Csikszereda is set for Sunday at 20:30 and will be broadcast on Prima Sport 1 and Digi Sport 1.
Stoian has made an impression since the season’s start, although he has not yet started a match. He played the last ten minutes against FC Argeș, contributing to a 2-0 victory, and was substituted in at halftime against Auda in the Conference League qualifiers.
His standout moment came with an assist for the equalizing goal scored by newcomer Aymen Boutoutaou, indicating that his performances may earn him a spot in the starting lineup.
More Playing Opportunities Expected for Alexandru Stoian
During the pre-match press conference, Baciu remarked, “Stoian is an interesting player, improving daily, and we are considering various options to maximize his time on the field. He might even feature in tomorrow’s game.”
Stoian has gained attention for his training efforts and potential, having been developed under national coach Gheorghe Hagi. FCSB staff have noted his impressive training sessions and communicated to owner Gigi Becali that he deserves more trust and playing time.
Currently, in a 4-3-3 formation, Tavi Popescu plays on the left, Aymen on the right, and Bîrligea in the center. For Stoian to join the starting lineup, adjustments in the tactical setup may be necessary, potentially shifting to a 4-2-3-1 formation to position him behind the striker.
Recently, Gigi Becali noted the likelihood of this tactical change, as Hagi reportedly expressed confidence in Stoian’s abilities in that role.
“What did I last hear from MM? ‘Gigi, you’ll see we can’t keep Stoian on the bench because he’s very good and scores a lot in training.’ In essence, he needs to play. I don’t loan out valuable players like him. He will play. I told Mihai, when I saw him, I envisioned him as a number 10. MM mentioned that this is what the boy told him in football terms I can’t recall. If Hagi said so, we should listen. Not that Hagi’s word is gospel, but we should pay attention. I see him as a number 10. Why do we bring in players if we keep them on the bench? We need to promote them. He scores goals, he seems to have grown a couple of centimeters. Toma doesn’t score but runs a lot, contributing both offensively and defensively. It’s a shame he doesn’t score.” — Gigi Becali on Stoian’s potential position.
