Constantin Schumacher will not continue as head coach of Minaur Baia Mare for the upcoming 2025/26 Liga 3 season after failing to secure promotion this summer. The Romanian coach, originally from Fălticeni, declined Minaur’s contract extension offer, reportedly due to a proposed salary reduction and an attractive opportunity closer to home.
Schumacher, who took charge of Minaur in January 2025, replaced Marius Popescu during a season marked by managerial changes—Francisc Dican began the campaign, followed by Popescu, before Schumacher’s arrival. Under his guidance, Minaur finished the regular season top of Serie 10, narrowly surpassing SCM Zalău, but ultimately ended second in the playoff. Their promotion hopes were dashed in a dramatic semifinal playoff against Poli Timișoara, losing on penalties after two draws.
The club officially announced the split on July 7, expressing gratitude for Schumacher’s professionalism and dedication during his brief tenure. They respected his personal decision and wished him success in his future endeavors.
According to local reports, Schumacher is on the verge of signing with SCM Râmnicu Vâlcea, a Liga 3 side that recently parted ways with Eugen Beza. This move would bring Schumacher closer to home and continue his extensive coaching career in the Romanian lower leagues. Beza, meanwhile, has already begun work at CSC Șelimbăr in Liga 2, although his appointment remains unofficially announced.
Meanwhile, Minaur Baia Mare is poised to appoint Flavius Sabău as their new head coach. Sabău, 41, parted ways with SCM Zalău this summer after leading them through the Liga 3 playoffs, where they competed closely with Minaur for the top position. Sabău was previously considered by Minaur in the winter but was passed over in favor of Schumacher. He brings experience managing several Liga 3 clubs and has worked in developmental roles at UTA’s academy.
This coaching reshuffle signals a period of transition for both clubs as they aim to recalibrate following a challenging season that saw them narrowly miss out on promotion.
*Insight:* Minaur’s decision to replace Schumacher with Sabău suggests a strategic shift as they seek fresh impetus to finally achieve promotion, while Schumacher’s return to Râmnicu Vâlcea highlights his continued ambition to succeed in Romania’s competitive Liga 3 landscape.