19-Year-Old Football Player

Young Footballer Luca Manolache Dies at 19

Romanian football is mourning the loss of 19-year-old Luca Manolache, a former rising star at Metaloglobus București, who died after battling a mysterious illness.

Known for his dedication and talent, Luca was forced to retire in August 2024 due to severe symptoms including dizziness, fatigue, and bloody stools.

Despite medical testing, no diagnosis was ever confirmed.

A Sudden Decline

Luca’s condition worsened quietly over several months. On February 28, 2025, while visiting a relative, he became critically ill.

In a moment of distress, he called his mother and said: “Mum, Mum, I can’t do it anymore,” and asked her: “Do you think I’m dying?” Shortly after, he passed away. An autopsy later revealed he had drowned in his own stomach acid after vomiting blood — a tragic end no one anticipated.

A Community in Grief

His death shocked family, friends, and the broader football community. Metaloglobus București paid tribute: “Luca was not only a gifted footballer but also a young man with a kind heart and an unwavering love for the game.” Tributes from across Romanian football emphasized the fragility of life, especially among seemingly healthy young athletes.