Coach's job on the line as Universitatea Craiova crashes out of Europa League

Universitatea Craiova faces a potential major upheaval following their disappointing exit from the Europa League. Coach Felipe Coelho, who guided the team to a league title last season, is reportedly under pressure after the club's failure to advance.

The Romanian side suffered a "catastrophic" second leg, losing 0-1 to Ararat-Armenia. Despite controlling much of the match and creating scoring opportunities, Craiova could not find the back of the net. The tie was decided in the final minutes when Ararat-Armenia was awarded a penalty. Although goalkeeper Laurențiu Popescu saved the initial attempt, the penalty had to be retaken due to encroachment. Popescu saved the second attempt as well, but the rebound fell to Sandro Lima, who scored the decisive goal, sealing Craiova's elimination.

“

It must be taken as a rumor by the public, but someone is writing to me that today, in Craiova, there were discussions that if they miss qualification in the Europa League, Coelho will leave, and Edi Iordănescu will come in his place!

Reports circulating around the club suggest that management is considering a change in coaching staff. Edi Iordănescu, a former national team coach, has emerged as a primary candidate to replace Coelho. "It must be taken as a rumor by the public, but someone is writing to me that today, in Craiova, there were discussions that if they miss qualification in the Europa League, Coelho will leave, and Edi Iordănescu will come in his place!" stated Costin Ștucan, according to sport.ro.

Niță added that Iordănescu's appointment would represent "the next level" for the club, bringing "image value," good coaching, financial stability, and improved training conditions. The move would be a significant coup for Universitatea Craiova, aiming to elevate their standing. Iordănescu has been without a club for nearly a year since his departure from Legia Warsaw and previously managed the Romanian national team from 2022 to 2024.

“

It would be the next level. They also want another level at the technical bench, and Edi Iordănescu would be an image coup first and foremost. A good coach, financial stability, training conditions, a good team, an audience. He would have all the ingredients!