FK Csíkszereda prepared for the start of the season with a significantly reshaped squad and coaching staff. Eleven players departed and eight outfield players arrived, while the coaching staff are also seeking to integrate youngsters from the academy. According to head coach Péter Kollár, the main objective during pre-season was to ensure that the players began functioning as a team as quickly as possible and to establish the style of play that could define them in the season ahead.

“It was important that the new arrivals fitted into our community not only as players but also as people. We looked for footballers who suited the style and DNA we represent here. Based on what I have seen in training, in our friendlies and during personal conversations, I consider the transfer window to have been a successful one,” Péter Kollár said.

Several defenders were among those who left, so the main emphasis was placed on strengthening the back line, although attacking players capable of deciding matches have also arrived. The head coach made no secret of the team’s ambition to compete for the league title while also aiming to regain the Romanian Cup. The upcoming European Cup campaign will make the season even more special, but for now the team’s full attention is focused on Saturday’s league opener.

“There is still a certain lack of cohesion, which we are trying to overcome both physically and in terms of our play, but I believe that being involved in the title race is a realistic goal. The match against Gloria is very important for us. I can see the competitive spirit in the players, they are looking forward to the start of the season, and we are travelling to Bistrița determined to win,” the head coach stressed.

According to Anita Antal, the team have come through a demanding pre-season, while the new players have quickly adapted to the side’s rhythm.

“Physically, we have done everything we possibly could, while also trying to come together as much as possible tactically and as a team. Some very talented players with excellent character have joined us. I expect a balanced match in Bistrița, but I feel we are slightly ahead of them,” said our player, who summed up the team’s league ambitions briefly: “We will give it everything – that much I can promise.”

Having fully recovered from her injury, Andrea Herczeg is also determined to begin the new season with three points.

“Ever since my first season in Miercurea Ciuc, it has been a personal ambition of mine to become a champion with this team. We will once again do everything we can to achieve that this year. Gloria will also be motivated, they strengthened their squad during the summer and will certainly want to win, but we are determined to return home from Bistrița with all three points,” she said.

The match between Gloria Bistrița and FK Csíkszereda will kick off at 1 p.m. on Saturday and will be broadcast live on Pro Arena.

R. A.
Photo: Zoltán Pál