Former FCSB coach recounts defying owner Becali during match

Former FCSB coach Mihai Stoichiță claimed he is the only manager to have spoken directly with club owner Gigi Becali by phone during a match. Stoichiță recounted an incident where he refused Becali's demand to substitute player Eric Bicfalvi during a game against Rapid.

Bicfalvi had received a yellow card in the first half, raising concerns about a potential second booking. Stoichiță explained that he had instructed the player at halftime to avoid decisive attacks and focus solely on positioning to mitigate risk.

When Stoichiță communicated his decision to keep Bicfalvi on the pitch, Becali accepted the explanation. The owner reportedly told the coach to proceed on his own responsibility. The match in Giulești ultimately ended in a 1-1 draw.

Stoichiță served two separate terms as FCSB coach under Becali, from 2009 to 2010 and briefly in 2012. He noted that while officials often hesitated to confront the owner directly, he felt compelled to argue his tactical case.

In recent developments, Becali announced significant lineup changes for an upcoming match against U Cluj. This decision followed a surprising cup defeat. The owner specified that central defenders Dawa and Duarte would replace Batubinsika and Mihai Popescu.

FCSB currently occupies sixth place in the Superliga standings. The team has accumulated 21 points after 13 rounds of competition.