Legendary Romanian coach Mircea Lucescu has passed away on April 7 at the age of 80, marking the end of an era in European football. The former Shakhtar Donetsk manager died at 20:30 in the University Emergency Hospital Bucharest (SUUB), where doctors had been fighting for his life for the past ten days.

According to reports, Mircea Lucescu suffered an acute myocardial infarction on Friday. Despite successful resuscitation and intensive care in a specialised unit, his condition deteriorated dramatically by Sunday night. Severe arrhythmias stopped responding to treatment, ultimately leading to a deep coma. In his final days, Lucescu remained in intensive care, supported by life-sustaining equipment.

In an official statement, the hospital said: “The University Emergency Hospital Bucharest announces that at approximately 20:30 today, the death of Mr. Mircea Lucescu was confirmed. He was a symbol of the nation, and generations were inspired by his example. May he rest in peace.”

The passing of Mircea Lucescu represents more than the loss of a great coach — it is the closing chapter of a remarkable football legacy, particularly tied to Shakhtar Donetsk. The Romanian tactician spent 12 unforgettable years with the club, guiding them to 22 major trophies, including the historic UEFA Cup triumph — the only European title in the history of independent Ukraine.