BREAKING: Legendary Romanian coach Mircea Lucescu dies at 80 after illness

Legendary Romanian manager Mircea Lucescu has passed away at the age of 80, just days after resigning from his role as Romania’s national team head coach due to health concerns, Sport360NG reports. 

Lucescu stepped down on Thursday after falling ill ahead of a training session. Reports indicate he was hospitalised shortly after and is believed to have suffered a heart attack on Friday morning.

In a heartfelt statement, the Romanian Football Federation paid tribute to one of the nation’s most iconic figures.

“Our football loses not only a brilliant tactician but also a mentor, visionary, and national symbol who carried our colours to great heights,” the federation said.

Lucescu enjoyed two spells in charge of Romania, first between 1981 and 1986, before returning in 2024. His final match came in March, when Romania suffered a 1-0 defeat to Turkey in a World Cup play-off, ending their hopes of qualifying for the 2026 tournament.

Over a managerial career spanning nearly five decades, Lucescu built a remarkable résumé, taking charge of top clubs including Inter Milan, Galatasaray, Besiktas, Shakhtar Donetsk, Zenit St Petersburg and Dynamo Kyiv. He also managed the Turkish national team during his extensive coaching journey, which began 47 years ago at Corvinul Hunedoara.

Former club Galatasaray led tributes on social media, honouring Lucescu’s achievements and lasting impact, while Inter Milan expressed condolences to his family and loved ones.

Before transitioning into management, Lucescu enjoyed a distinguished playing career, earning 64 caps for Romania and captaining the national team at the 1970 World Cup.

Romanian Football Federation president Razvan Burleanu described his death as a profound loss.

“This is a dark day for Romanian and global football. He was more than a coach, he was a teacher and an inspiration to generations. His legacy will endure,” he said.