Hagi set for emotional return as Romania appoint a national icon

Gheorghe Hagi is practically Romania’s new national team coach, stepping in after the death of Mircea Lucescu earlier this month. Romanian media report that the federation has already reached an agreement with the country’s greatest footballing figure, who was expected to be unveiled at a press conference and it was so. Local outlets say Hagi has signed a two‑year contract, marking his return to a role he briefly held in 2001 at the start of his managerial career.

Since then, he has coached at Galatasaray, Bursaspor and several Romanian clubs, building a reputation that complements his legendary playing status. Revered as the “Maradona of the Carpathians”, Hagi starred for Steaua, Real Madrid, Barcelona and Galatasaray, and remains Romania’s all‑time top scorer. His appointment comes amid national mourning for Lucescu, whom Hagi described as a mentor and father figure. The transition signals a symbolic new chapter for Romanian football.