After three years abroad marked by inconsistent performances, Romanian midfielder Alexandru Cicâldău returned to Universitatea Craiova on loan from Galatasaray, aiming to revive his career. Unfortunately, medical issues sidelined him from February onwards, and he is currently focused on a full recovery. His loan expires this summer, and his future remains uncertain as the ball is now in Craiova’s court to decide whether to pursue a permanent deal.
Giovanni Becali, involved in Cicâldău’s negotiations, clarified that the move to Craiova was never a definitive transfer but a loan arrangement, emphasizing that the club must decide on the player’s future. Cicâldău, once a Romanian national team regular, has lost his place under coach Mircea Lucescu, partly due to his fluctuating form and injury setbacks.
Meanwhile, Universitatea Craiova’s management is active in the transfer market, having secured several new players and planning at least one more striker signing for the upcoming season. Club director Sorin Cârțu described this recruitment phase as the most productive since his 2014 arrival, highlighting a blend of youth and experience aimed at rapid team cohesion. He set ambitious targets: finishing in the league’s top three, contending for the championship, securing European competition qualification, and winning the Romanian Cup. Significant financial backing—around €4 million—has been invested to strengthen the squad.
Cicâldău’s return to Craiova makes strategic sense as he seeks to regain form and national team selection. His contract with Galatasaray runs until June 2026, but his loan spells, including a recent unconvincing season at Konyaspor, suggest that a permanent return to Romania could be beneficial for both player and club. The decision looming this summer will shape his career trajectory and potentially impact Craiova’s competitiveness in the Superliga.