Former Chelsea defender Dan Petrescu has been confirmed to be in good health and does not have cancer, directly contradicting alarming reports about his wellbeing that had circulated in his native Romania.
Confusion Over Health Status
The concerning speculation began when Gino Iorgulescu, the president of the Romanian Football League, told local media that the 58-year-old football legend was undergoing chemotherapy for a serious illness. Iorgulescu described the situation as "delicate" and said the news made his "skin crawl".
These comments were followed by reports in Romanian press claiming Petrescu had lost five stone in weight. Images and videos appeared to show the former full-back looking frail while walking in a park, wearing dark sunglasses. Belgian publication Cancan even stated he was "unrecognisable" and that his daughters had flown to Romania to be at his side.
Official Clarification and Relief
However, the situation was clarified on Saturday when the BBC reported that Dan Petrescu does not have cancer and is well. BBC Sport journalist Nizaar Kinsella posted on X: "Just a note to say all is okay with former Chelsea legend Dan Petrescu and he doesn't have cancer (following reports)."
Petrescu stepped down from his role as head coach at CFR Cluj four months ago in August, marking the end of his fourth spell managing the club. During his tenure, he led the team to four league titles and a Romanian Cup victory.
Background of the Chelsea Icon
Dan Petrescu is a beloved figure at Stamford Bridge, where he played for four-and-a-half years after joining from Sheffield Wednesday in November 1995. He made 208 appearances for Chelsea, scoring 23 goals and providing 20 assists.
His time in West London was highly successful, as he was part of the squad that won the League Cup, two FA Cups, and the UEFA Super Cup. He left for Bradford City in August 2000, later playing for Southampton and FC Național before retiring in 2003 and moving into management.
The former Cluj president, Cristian Balaj, had previously hinted at unconventional treatments, mentioning Petrescu was "at one point... being treated with Chinese medicine" but was on a path to recovery. With the latest confirmation from reliable sources, fans of the Chelsea legend can now breathe a sigh of relief regarding his health.
