Cristi Ignat, a 23-year-old central defender for Rapid, was present in Giulești to sell tickets for the derby against Dinamo scheduled for August 15. During this event, he addressed the topic of a possible transfer.
Reports from late July suggested a potential transfer for Ignat to a team in Russia. When asked about his future with Rapid, Ignat did not dismiss the possibility of leaving:
Cristi Ignat: “Probably There Are Discussions About My Departure from Rapid”
He stated, “I don’t know about these discussions; that’s the management’s responsibility. I’m focused on training and preparing myself. I haven’t been informed about any transfer, but it’s likely something is being worked on. Whether I stay or go, I need to be ready.”
“It will be a great derby. It’s good that it’s being held at Giulești. I think it gives us an advantage if many fans come out to fill the stadium. The supporters have shown me encouragement, and they’re excited to attend the match. I won’t be in the squad for the game against UTA; that was a decision made by the coaching staff, and I respect it. I’ve been training well, but the decision was purely theirs.”
Cristi Ignat Excluded from UTA – Rapid Squad
Ignat confirmed he will not be part of the Rapid squad for the match against UTA Arad, expressing respect for the staff’s decision.
“It’s clear that there are more players than spots available, and some will be left out while others may leave. I’m the longest-serving player in the current squad, having promoted with Rapid under Mister Daniel Pancu. I’ve become attached to this club and have always given my all whenever I stepped onto the field.”
He added, “I’m a hardworking player, but other decisions are beyond my control. I hope we win today against UTA. I know how they’ve prepared and I’m confident they will perform well.”
Ignat noted how quickly situations can change in football, stating, “One day you’re a substitute, and the next you’re a starter, even scoring goals. I believe Mister has adjusted our playing style; we’re more aggressive and attack more. I think we can secure a trophy this year.”
Having debuted with Rapid under Daniel Pancu in the third tier, Ignat has been a substitute in all three matches of the current season without logging any minutes. Over five seasons at senior level, he has played 64 matches in both the Superliga and Liga 2, scoring a single goal on May 18, 2026, during a 5-1 defeat against Oțelul Galați, a match crucial for avoiding relegation.
