Constantin Schumacher and Minaur Baia Mare have officially ended their collaboration ahead of the 2025/26 Liga 3 season, following the club’s failure to secure promotion this summer. Schumacher declined Minaur’s renewal offer and is now on the verge of signing with SCM Râmnicu Vâlcea, another Liga 3 side that also fell short of advancing to Liga 2.
Schumacher took charge of Minaur in January 2025, replacing Marius Popescu during a turbulent season that saw the club change coaches twice. Under his leadership, Minaur finished the regular season top of Serie 10, edging SCM Zalău by two points. However, despite a strong playoff showing where they again finished second, Minaur were eliminated in the promotion semifinals by Poli Timișoara in a dramatic penalty shootout after two closely contested legs.
The club announced their gratitude for Schumacher’s commitment and professionalism but confirmed that due to personal reasons, he chose not to continue. Reports suggest two key factors influenced his decision: a proposed pay cut in the new contract and an appealing offer from SCM Râmnicu Vâlcea, a club geographically closer to his home. SCM Râmnicu Vâlcea is preparing to move on from coach Eugen Beza, who has returned to CSC Șelimbăr.
Meanwhile, Minaur Baia Mare appears set to appoint Flavius Sabău as their new head coach. Sabău, 41, recently parted ways with SCM Zalău after leading them through the latter part of the season’s playoff. This would mark a return to Minaur’s radar, as he was considered for the role earlier this year before Schumacher’s appointment. Sabău’s coaching resume includes several Liga 3 clubs and developmental roles, highlighting his experience at this level.
In terms of squad changes, striker Mircea Donca will not remain at Minaur, having signed with CSM Olimpia Satu Mare in Liga 2.
This coaching reshuffle underscores the competitive nature of Liga 3 and the fine margins that define promotion battles. Minaur’s ambition to return to Liga 2 will hinge on Sabău’s ability to build on the solid foundation Schumacher left behind, while Schumacher’s move to SCM Râmnicu Vâlcea may rejuvenate that club’s promotion hopes.