Universitatea Craiova is in the midst of a significant team rebuild as they prepare for the upcoming season, with several new signings already confirmed and more expected. Club legend Sorin Cârțu praised the transfer activity as the most fruitful since his involvement began in 2014, highlighting a balanced mix of youth and experience in the new roster.
So far, the club has secured the services of young talents Luca Băsceanu, Mihnea Rădulescu, David Matei, and defenders Alexandru Crețu, Samuel Teles, Tudor Băluță, and Nikola Stevanovic. Recently confirmed additions include central defenders Darius Fălcușan (19) and Oleksandr Romanchuk (25), and forward Assad Al-Hamlawi (24), all signed for multiple seasons and already training with the squad. More players are expected to join, with the club targeting at least one more striker to complete the squad. This extensive transfer campaign reportedly involves an investment of around €4 million, reflecting the club’s ambition and financial commitment.
Cârțu emphasized the need for rapid integration of new players to build team chemistry, describing the process as a “reconstruction” aimed not just at immediate results but future success. The club’s objectives for the season remain ambitious: securing a top-three finish in Liga I, contending for the championship, qualifying for European competitions, and winning the Romanian Cup. He acknowledged that recent seasons have been below expectations but expressed optimism given the current squad overhaul and shareholder support[original article].
Meanwhile, winger Ștefan Baiaram, reflecting on the team’s recent training camp and 1-0 friendly win over MTK Budapest, noted the squad’s lack of match rhythm but viewed the camp as productive. He stressed the importance of accumulating game time ahead of their UEFA Conference League qualifying round against FK Sarajevo, with the first leg away on July 24 and the return at Ion Oblemenco Stadium a week later. Baiaram also called for strong fan support to help the team advance into the European group stage[original article].
Under head coach Mirel Rădoi, who has been vocal about the need for reinforcements, Universitatea Craiova enters the new campaign with a substantially revamped lineup, hoping this investment in personnel translates into a more competitive and consistent team performance both domestically and in Europe.