Romanian football faces referee controversy and club management shifts

Romanian football is currently facing significant internal tension following a controversial derby between Dinamo and FCSB. Referee Istvan Kovacs faced intense criticism for several high-profile errors that required multiple VAR interventions, including a rescinded penalty and a red card decision. Romanian Football Federation (FRF) President Răzvan Burleanu has publicly defended Kovacs, emphasizing the need to support officials despite mistakes and highlighting the referee's international experience. However, the Central Commission of Referees (CCA) head, Kyros Vassaras, also defended the official, while criticizing VAR assistants for providing poor-quality footage. Former referee Marius Avram characterized the performance as lacking concentration or exhibiting arrogance.

Separately, FCSB is undergoing major squad and management shifts. Owner Gigi Becali has announced a tactical move to a 4-2-3-1 formation and is considering coaching changes amid a difficult season. While Dan Petrescu has been linked to the club, a move would not be possible until 2027 due to health reasons. Additionally, Octavian Popescu is set to join Greek side Levadiakos on loan, and player Karlo Muhar has been integrated into the squad.

In other club news, CFR Cluj has entered insolvency to reorganize its finances, with owner Ioan Varga stating he expects the situation to stabilize by December. Meanwhile, striker Borisav Burmaz has left Rapid to join TSC Backa Topola in Serbia.