U Cluj president confirms Bergodi stay and winter squad retention

U Cluj president Radu Constantea has officially dismissed speculation regarding the departure of head coach Cristiano Bergodi, stating that the Italian manager’s position was never in danger. Following the team's recent victory, Constantea affirmed that the chances of Bergodi leaving are non-existent and that he will continue to lead the Romanian Cup finalists. The club president explained that he and Bergodi had already clarified their respective perspectives during a private discussion held two weeks prior to this public confirmation.

Addressing the club's broader strategy, Constantea emphasized that financial stability remains the primary objective, a principle established when the current project began in Liga 4. He acknowledged that this focus might make the club appear conservative regarding transfers but insisted it is necessary for long-term health. On the sporting side, U Cluj aims to qualify for the championship play-offs for a third consecutive season and subsequently target a place in European competitions.

To support these competitive goals, the administration has ruled out any player exits during the upcoming winter transfer window. Constantea specifically confirmed the club's determination to retain Jovo Lukic and Issouf Macalou until the end of the season, rejecting potential approaches for the pair. This decision underscores the priority placed on squad continuity as the team pursues its objective of securing European qualification.

The official clarification came after U Cluj defeated FCSB in round 14 of the Superliga, inflicting the first league defeat on opposing coach Laurențiu Reghecampf. Despite missing key personnel including Codrea, Drammeh, and central defenders, the result propelled U Cluj to fourth place in the standings. However, the team remains five points adrift of Rapid and cannot finish the first half of the season in a podium position.

Looking ahead, U Cluj is scheduled to play an away match against FK Csikszereda on November 7 at 15:00. This fixture marks the final round before the Superliga enters a two-week hiatus to accommodate Romania’s Nations League matches against Poland and Bosnia.