Former Romania stars urge Hagi to end tactical experiments after Nations League slump

Former Romania striker Ciprian Marica has urged national team coach Gică Hagi to stop tactical experiments and field a consistent lineup. Marica made these comments after the team suffered poor results in the Nations League. He stated that Hagi is not a savior and cannot perform miracles with the current group of players available to him.

Marica noted that Hagi used different starting lineups in the first four matches without achieving success. The former forward expressed hope for simple and correct football from the national side. He argued against the use of unusual tactics or excessive flair, suggesting that basic solidity should be the priority given the circumstances.

The call for stability comes after Romania lost four consecutive official Nations League matches in September and October 2026. The defeats included losses of 1-2 and 0-1 against Sweden. The team also suffered a 2-4 defeat against Bosnia-Herzegovina and a heavy 0-6 loss to Poland.

Romania currently sits in last place in Group 4 of League B with zero points accumulated. Marica highlighted that the player selection pool is very small. He cited a 7-0 defeat for the U21 team against Spain as evidence of broader issues within the national player development system.

Former national team coach Victor Pițurcă also commented on the situation. Pițurcă, who served three mandates as Romania coach between 1998 and 2014, warned that results are essential for survival in the role. He stated that the public will not have infinite patience with Hagi if the poor form continues.

Despite the criticism, FRF president Răzvan Burleanu stated he continues to grant credit to Gică Hagi. Burleanu expressed unconditional support for the coach during this difficult period. Hagi began his new term in June 2026 with two friendly matches, which included a 1-1 draw with Georgia and a 2-1 victory over Wales.

Romania faces two final Nations League matches in November 2026. The team will play Poland in Bucharest on November 14. They will then travel to face Bosnia-Herzegovina on November 17. These games represent the last chance to improve their standing before the next international break.

Looking ahead, the draw for the EURO 2028 qualifying groups is scheduled for December 6, 2026. Romania is confirmed for Pot 3 in the draw. They will be joined in this pot by teams such as Slovenia, Ukraine, and Poland. The outcome of the remaining Nations League fixtures may influence perceptions heading into that draw.