Mircea Lucescu to Undergo Surgery After Cardiac Incidents
Veteran Romanian manager Mircea Lucescu is scheduled for surgery after suffering multiple cardiac incidents, his hospital in Bucharest confirmed on Monday. The 80-year-old, who was admitted to the emergency room on March 29th following a collapse, has been in intensive care since suffering several cardiac arrests this past Friday. The University Emergency Hospital of Bucharest (SUUB) stated that Lucescu's condition, while serious, is being managed with ongoing treatment.
The hospital's latest update, issued on Monday evening, indicated that while Lucescu's current treatment is considered effective, his condition will be re-evaluated on Tuesday. The medical team will then consider performing an invasive procedure to implant a mechanical circulatory support system, commonly known as ECMO (Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation). The hospital's statement clarified that a decision on this intervention would be made following the next assessment of his condition.
Lucescu, a legendary figure in Romanian and Eastern European football, has had a storied career both as a player and a manager. As a manager, he achieved significant success, most notably leading Galatasaray to a UEFA Super Cup victory in 2000 and guiding Shakhtar Donetsk to the UEFA Cup in 2009. His most recent role was as the head coach of the Romanian national team, a position he held until 2023. His career on the touchline has spanned over four decades, earning him a legendary status in Romanian football.
The 80-year-old was hospitalized after collapsing at the national team's training camp. After initially showing signs of improvement, his condition deteriorated on Friday, leading to several cardiac events that required his transfer to intensive care and the use of a defibrillator. The hospital's current treatment plan is being closely monitored, with the potential surgical intervention aimed at providing advanced cardiac support. The football world, particularly in Romania, Ukraine, and Turkey where he is revered for his past successes, is awaiting further updates on his condition following the scheduled medical evaluation.
