Defender Oleksandr Romanchuk explained why he switched from "Kryvbas" to a club that not long ago knocked "Zorya" out of European competitions.
Oleksandr Romanchuk— Oleksandr, how long ago did the option with "Universitatea" appear?
— About two or three weeks before my arrival here. The agent called and informed that there was interest from the club. I said: OK, let's consider it, listen to what they offer. And, to be honest, I liked this option right away. I understood that it could be a good step for me. I started analyzing the championship, the team, the conditions — weighing all the pros and cons. But I hadn't made a final decision yet — I was waiting, perhaps there would be other options. But still, here I am — and I do not regret it.
— Have you followed the new team?
— Before that, I didn't really follow the local championship, but in general, I knew about "Universitatea". I remembered that Ukrainian clubs played against them in European competitions. I also paid attention to Romania when Konoplianka was playing here — I watched and understood what the championship was like, which teams are on top.
— What tasks does "Universitatea" have for the new season?
— It's an ambitious team that only sets the maximum goals for itself. From the very beginning of our communication with the club, it was only about victories and fighting for the top places. In other words, it's only about the highest tasks in the championship.
— Which well-known players can you single out in the team?
— First of all, I would highlight the players of the Romania national team. For example, our captain Nikushor Bancu, as well as Vladimir Screciu, who plays as a defensive midfielder. By the way, they faced the national team of Ukraine in a match at Euro-2024.
— How was your first meeting with coach Mirel Radoi?
— We first communicated via video call when negotiations were underway and I was still at "Kryvbas". The coach and the sports director were on the call. They welcomed me very warmly, I liked the way they spoke. The coach said he sees me in the team, made a few compliments. We talked about tactics, about goals, about what would be expected from me. In general, we quickly found common ground, and after that conversation, I already knew that I was expected there. It remained for the clubs to agree.
— Did you talk with your new partners, coaches, or management about the Euro cup match against "Zorya"? What do they think about Ukrainian football?
— Yes, we mentioned it. They told me they played against "Zorya" in Poland. The first game was very tough — they lost 0:1, and said it could have been 0:5, so much "Zorya" outplayed them. But at home, Craiova won 3:0 and left no chances.
They said that "Zorya" was a strong team, it was not easy to play against them. In general, they have a positive impression of Ukrainian football.
— Is it true that other Ukrainian legionnaires may join the club — Isenko, Lunov, or Vantukh?
— I don't know about that. I am not competent in such matters. It's better to contact the club management or the sports director.
— What is your personal motivation in the new club?
— To develop, grow, win, become stronger as a footballer and as a professional. I want to gain experience in another country, in a European championship. This is an opportunity to play in European competitions, so the motivation is maximum.
— You already have experience playing abroad. What can you say about Romania compared to your previous experience — Hungary?
— I expected that Romania and Hungary would be similar countries, but after arriving, I realized that there is a completely different mentality here. People are much warmer, more open, friendly.
Hungarians were a bit more reserved. Here, from the first day, you feel a different mood — both in the team and in everyday life. I've already been to the bank and the hospital — everywhere people are very nice. When they hear that I am from Ukraine — they ask about the war, sympathize, condemn Russia, Putin. This is pleasant and very important.
— Ahead of your new team are European competition matches. The first opponent is Bosnia's "Sarajevo". What are your team's chances against this opponent?
— I believe there are all chances. "Sarajevo" is a strong team in its country, but our task is to reach the group stage. So it doesn't matter who the opponent is — we will play to win.
— Is "Universitatea"'s task for the European competition season limited only to the group stage?
— The main thing right now is to get to the group stage. And then — to win every match. This is a club where losing is not accepted. Everyone — the coach and the management — is charged for victories. Their energy, mood, how they present it — all of this inspires. You feel that you need to give your all.
— Where will you live in Craiova — at the base or in an apartment?
— There is a good base here where you can live, but soon my wife will arrive, so I will rent an apartment, and we will live there as a family.
— How do you assess the club's infrastructure? Have you already had a chance to get acquainted with it?
— I will note that the infrastructure is at a very good level. There is a modern training base with several quality fields, everything necessary for recovery: medical equipment, sauna, jacuzzi, swimming pools — cold and hot, gym. Everything is compact, convenient, and comfortable.
— How did you say goodbye to "Kryvbas"?
— It was during the training camp. There was such a rather sensitive conversation. I gathered everyone in the evening, stood up, and said that I wanted to share a few words. I said what was probably in my heart. This year was very important in my life. We went through a lot together. We even joked that it was a year for three — because so much happened: both European competitions, and the championship, and changes in the team. There were many different moments — both sad and joyful.
We really became one collective, bonded very well. Of course, it was sad to say goodbye. Moreover, this was already a turning point: many players from that squad left, only a few remained. Newcomers came, a new coaching staff. So I just said goodbye, thanked, and wished the guys success.
Ihor DMYTRENKO
