Răzvan Bălașa Sidelined Following Cruciate Ligament Surgery: Key Absence for FC U Craiova Ahead of Friendly Campaign
FC U Craiova 1948 will begin their preseason without a key member of their defensive line, as central defender Răzvan Bălașa has undergone cruciate ligament surgery. The procedure took place on June 30, 2025, following a diagnosis that revealed ligament damage that required immediate medical intervention. According to medical reports and sources close to the club, Bălașa is expected to be sidelined for approximately 10 weeks, ruling him out of the club’s upcoming matches, including the highly anticipated friendly against CS Păulești on July 16, 2025.
A Blow to Craiova’s Defensive Stability
Bălașa has been a consistent and reliable figure in FC U Craiova’s backline. His absence creates a significant void in the team’s defense, especially as the squad gears up for a new campaign with renewed ambitions. Known for his aerial strength, positional awareness, and leadership at the back, his presence will be sorely missed during this recovery period.
Managerial staff are now faced with the challenge of reconfiguring their defensive setup. With a string of preseason matches ahead, this period was intended to sharpen team cohesion and test tactical variations. The absence of such a pivotal player forces an early adjustment, likely opening opportunities for younger or newly integrated defenders to step up.
Expected Recovery Timeline
Recovery from cruciate ligament surgery typically follows a structured rehabilitation plan. While timelines vary depending on the player’s physical response and therapy progression, the estimated 10-week layoff means Bălașa may not return to full training until mid-September 2025. Match fitness could take even longer, potentially delaying his return to competitive action until October.
The club’s medical department is expected to monitor his progress closely. Early recovery stages will focus on pain control, swelling reduction, and joint mobility. Gradual introduction of weight-bearing activities and muscle strengthening will follow in the coming weeks.
Opportunity for Defensive Depth to Shine
While Bălașa’s injury is undoubtedly a setback, it presents an opportunity for Valentin David, the team’s current head coach, to evaluate other squad members. Players like Claudiu Bălan, Mario Enache, or youth prospects from the academy may now find themselves on the radar for significant preseason minutes.
This also allows the club to test potential transfer market strategies. With the summer window open, the board may consider short-term reinforcements to maintain defensive stability heading into the new season.
Fan Reactions and Club Response
Supporters have taken to social media to wish Bălașa a speedy recovery, recognizing his contributions in last season’s defensive efforts. FC U Craiova has yet to release an official statement, but internal sources suggest the club is committed to providing the best medical and psychological support to facilitate a full recovery.
Looking Ahead
As FC U Craiova prepares for their July 16 friendly against CS Păulești and beyond, the team must do so without one of their most dependable defenders. The coming weeks will reveal not just how well the squad can cope in Bălașa’s absence, but also how quickly the center-back can return to the pitch stronger than before. All eyes now turn to Craiova’s next moves—on and off the field.
