Universitatea Craiova faces €9.25 million transfer pressure after Champions League exit

Universitatea Craiova was eliminated from the Champions League qualifiers after a 2‑2 draw with Bulgaria's Levski Sofia, ending the Romanian champion's campaign in the competition. Club owner Mihai Rotaru convened an emergency meeting with head coach Filipe Coelho, expressing dissatisfaction with the team's defensive performance and urging improvements while encouraging the players to aim for a successful season in the Europa League.

Transfer offers for forward Ștefan Baiaram and striker Assad Al‑Hamlawi have reportedly reached a combined value of about €9.25 million. Rotaru and other club insiders have suggested that selling the players could offset the financial shortfall caused by the early Champions League exit. The club will continue its European journey in the Europa League, with a forthcoming tie against Finland's KuPS Kuopio.