Dan Petrescu diagnosed with cancer and undergoing treatment
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, reports BritPanorama.
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 stated, “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.”
Iorgulescu added, “I don’t know the exact diagnosis, but I understand that it is very serious.” He expressed a personal connection to 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 said, conveying his distress at learning of Petrescu’s condition.
“Such news makes me uncomfortable – it makes my skin crawl,” he continued. Acknowledging that they had not communicated since the severity of the illness became apparent, he noted, “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.”
Petrescu signed with Chelsea from Sheffield Wednesday in November 1995 and established himself as a key figure during the club’s successful era in the late ’90s. Over four and a half seasons, he contributed to the club’s success, winning five major trophies, including two FA Cups, a League Cup, and the UEFA Super Cup. He scored 23 goals and provided 20 assists in 208 appearances, becoming the first overseas player to reach 100 appearances for Chelsea before departing for Bradford City in August 2000.
After stepping away from his position as CFR Cluj manager in August, Petrescu marked the end of his fourth stint with the Romanian club, which saw him secure four league titles during his tenure. Reports indicate he has lost approximately five stone in weight since leaving that role.
Recent footage captured in Romania showed Petrescu walking through a park wearing dark sunglasses and appearing noticeably frail. His three daughters have reportedly returned from abroad to be by their father’s side as he undergoes treatment for the illness.
As his former teammates and fans rally in support, the contrast between Petrescu’s vibrant on-field presence and his current battle with health reflects the fragility of life in an unforgiving sport.
