Head coach of Moldova's national football team resigns

Serghei Clescenco has submitted his resignation from the position of coach of Moldova's national football team, following a discussion with the leadership of the Moldovan Football Federation (FMF). The situation at the senior national team, as well as the evaluation of other national teams will be analyzed at the Coaches Committee meeting, scheduled for early next week. Recommendations will subsequently be submitted to the FMF Executive Committee for taking final decisions.

In a message addressed to fans and the football community, Clescenco said:

“In these approximately four years, we have experienced many emotions together, some less pleasant, for which I apologize, but also many nice ones. Together, we were one step away from a historic qualification to EURO 2024 and promoted to League C of the Nations League. During this time, I felt your support, the one of the fans, the players, the staff and of the Federation. Thank you all for the confidence and support provided. We've worked together, believed and fought for the colors of our country. In life, there are ups and downs and I believe it's time for a change, a decision I consider fit both for me and for the team. I wish the national team great success at the important matches ahead this autumn! Come on, Moldova!”

Two days ago, the national football team, under the leadership of the 53-year-old Moldovan coach, were categorically defeated by Norway at the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, with a score of 11-1.

Serghei Clescenco was an international footballer and Moldovan football coach. In his playing career, he played as a forward and represented Moldova's national team in 69 matches, scoring 11 goals, making him the second-highest scorer in the team's history. Since 2021, Clescenco took over as the head coach of the national team, leading the team in international competitions, including the qualifiers for the European Championship and the Nations League, during which the team reached significant moments, such as coming close to a historic qualification for EURO 2024 and promotion to League C of the Nations League.