Romania legend Gheorghe Hagi returns as manager: ‘Our goal is to win every game’

Gheorghe Hagi has taken over as manager of the Romanian national team for a second time, with the former Barcelona star announcing ambitious targets for his new charges.

“Our goal is to win every game. Our goal is to win the Nations League. Our goal is to qualify for the European Championship [in 2028],” Hagi said at a press conference in Bucharest. “I was born to win, not just to exist. Don’t you know my motto?” added the 61-year-old, nicknamed the “Maradona of the Carpathians”.

Hagi has signed a four-year contract, calling it an honour and a great responsibility, but also “a huge challenge” to make the country and their supporters happy.

The appointment marks Hagi’s return as coach of Romania, more than two decades on from a stint that lasted less than three months in 2001. “I was young and restless then. I’m different now. More experienced, more of a coach in every way,” Hagi said.

Hagi is presented at a press conference in Bucharest. Photograph: Robert Ghement/EPA

He takes over from Mircea Lucescu, who died at the age of 80 following a heart attack earlier this month. Lucescu was the coach who gave Hagi his international debut at the age of 18 and then promoted him to captain at just 20. “He wanted me to take over as coach,” Hagi said.

A midfielder known for his magical left foot, Hagi made 124 appearances for Romania and led the country to the quarter-finals of the 1994 World Cup. His playing career took him to top European sides such as Real Madrid and Barcelona, before he turned to coaching.

Romania have not qualified for the World Cup since 1998. Their latest attempt was foiled at the end of March, when Turkey beat them 1-0 in the playoff semi-final.

“We’re going to try to be the best. It might seem like a tall order, but you know I like to set myself pretty ambitious goals. I love to win,” said Hagi.