The Romanian football community is in deep mourning following the heartbreaking loss of teenage footballer Luca Manolache, who passed away at just 19 years old after a mysterious and devastating illness. Once a rising star for Metaloglobus București, Luca’s life was tragically cut short despite months of battling health problems that had already forced him to walk away from the sport he loved so dearly.
Luca’s journey began full of promise. Known for his passion, discipline, and unwavering dedication, he quickly earned a reputation as a talented young athlete with a bright future ahead. During his time with Metaloglobus București, he displayed boundless enthusiasm and immense potential. But in August 2024, everything changed. Luca began suffering from alarming health symptoms — dizziness, chronic fatigue, and bloody stools — and ultimately made the heart-wrenching decision to retire from football.
His sudden exit from the sport left family, friends, and teammates deeply concerned. Despite undergoing medical tests and seeking professional care, the cause of his illness remained unclear. Over time, his condition quietly worsened — a slow, cruel decline no one could have predicted would end so tragically.
On February 28, 2025, Luca became critically ill while spending time with a relative. As his symptoms escalated, he made a desperate phone call to his mother — a moment now forever imprinted in the memory of his grieving family. Through fear and pain, he reportedly said: “Mum, Mum, I can’t do it anymore,” followed by the haunting question: “Do you think I’m dying?”
Not long after that call, Luca passed away. The autopsy revealed a horrifying truth: the young athlete had drowned in his own stomach acid after vomiting blood. The shocking nature of his death devastated everyone who knew him. Despite his earlier symptoms and multiple medical consultations, the underlying illness was never identified or treated in time.
In a heartfelt statement, Metaloglobus București expressed their sorrow:
“Luca was not only a gifted footballer but also a young man with a kind heart and an unwavering love for the game. His dedication on the pitch and his warm spirit off it made him deeply loved by teammates and coaches alike. We are heartbroken by this loss and extend our sincere condolences to his family and loved ones.”
Tributes poured in from across Romanian football. Fellow players, coaches, and fans expressed their shock and sadness online, with many describing Luca’s death as a tragic reminder of life’s fragility — even for the young and seemingly healthy.
His passing has also raised important questions about the need for comprehensive medical evaluations, particularly for young athletes reporting unusual symptoms. While Luca’s health problems may not have initially appeared life-threatening, his story underscores the importance of taking such concerns seriously and listening closely when someone insists something feels wrong in their body.
The Manolache family is now left grieving a beloved son whose potential will never be realized. His mother, who heard his final words, is said to be devastated — yet grateful that her son reached out to her in his last moments.
As the football world continues to mourn, Metaloglobus București has announced plans to honor Luca’s legacy. This will include a moment of silence before their next match and discussions about creating a youth training scholarship in his name.
Though Luca Manolache is gone, his spirit — and the joy he brought to the football pitch — will live on. His story is a poignant call for compassion, better healthcare, and greater awareness of the unseen battles people may be fighting.