Legendary Romanian coach Mircea Lucescu passed away on April 7, 2026, at age 80. A former forward and Romania captain with 64 caps, he played at the 1970 World Cup. His 47-year coaching career yielded around 35 major trophies, making him one of Europe’s most successful managers.
On April 8, 2026, Galatasaray players took the field for their Süper Lig away match against Göztepe at Gürsel Aksel Stadium in İzmir carrying a banner reading “We miss you, Mircea Lucescu.” Lucescu coached Galatasaray from 2000 to 2002, winning the league and the 2000 UEFA Super Cup against Real Madrid.
Lucescu also led Romania to Euro 1984 and had two spells as national team coach, the second ending in 2026. His tactical acumen and longevity place him behind only figures like Ferguson and Guardiola in all-time trophy counts.