Dan Petrescu, the former Chelsea defender, has received a cancer diagnosis and is currently undergoing chemotherapy treatment, according to Romanian Football League president Gino Iorgulescu.
The 57-year-old, who made his name at Stamford Bridge during the late 1990s, is facing what Iorgulescu described as a "very serious" situation. Speaking to Romanian media, Iorgulescu said: "I don't know what to say – it is a delicate situation. May God help Dan to get better, for there to be a cure."
He added: "I don't know the exact diagnosis, but I understand that it is very serious." Iorgulescu revealed his deep personal connection to Mr Petrescu, having worked with him both as a player and later as a manager at FC National.
"He played for me, and he also worked for me as a coach at FC National. I was also friends with him," he told local media. The football official expressed his distress at learning of Petrescu's condition.
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"Such news makes me uncomfortable – it makes my skin crawl," Mr Iorgulescu said. He acknowledged their communication had ceased since the severity of the illness became apparent, saying: "I had, and still have, a good relationship with him. Since I found out his situation was very serious, I haven't spoken to him."
Mr Petrescu arrived signed from the London club in November 1995 following a move from Sheffield Wednesday, going on to establish himself as a key figure in the Blues' success during that era. The eastern European full-back claimed five pieces of silverware during his time in the capital, including two FA Cups, a League Cup and the UEFA Super Cup.
His contribution to the club was significant, registering 23 goals and 20 assists across 208 appearances over four and a half seasons. Petrescu holds the distinction of being the first overseas player to accumulate 100 appearances for Chelsea, departing for Bradford City in August 2000.
Petrescu stepped away from his position as CFR Cluj manager in August, marking the end of his fourth stint in charge of the Romanian club, where he had previously secured four league titles. Reports from Romania indicate the former defender has shed approximately five stone in weight since leaving the role.
Dan Petrescu stepped away from his position as CFR Cluj manager in August
|GETTY
Recent footage captured in his home country showed Petrescu walking through a park wearing dark sunglasses, appearing noticeably frail. His three daughters have reportedly travelled back from abroad to be at their father's side as he undergoes treatment for the illness.
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