FC Botoșani president Valeriu Iftime has signaled Hervin Ongenda’s potential return to the team, contradicting coach Leo Grozavu’s recent firm statement that Ongenda would no longer figure in his plans for the 2025-2026 season[Article]. Although Ongenda, a 30-year-old French attacking midfielder, previously skipped preseason citing personal issues and had an expiring contract, Iftime insists Ongenda is expected back soon and must convince Grozavu he deserves a place[Article]. This tug-of-war highlights internal disagreements in Botoșani’s strategy as they prepare their squad, emphasizing Ongenda’s unique importance—the player has thrived exclusively with Botoșani across four separate spells while struggling to establish himself elsewhere in Europe[Article]. The resolution will impact the club’s attacking options and reflects broader challenges balancing club leadership and coaching decisions in Liga 1 roster-building.
