Oleksandr Romanchuk, Getty Images December 10, 2025, 1:25 p.m

The Ukrainian defender of the University of Craiova Oleksandr Romanchuk was recognized as the best defender of the Romanian championship in 2025 according to the version of the popular publication Fanatik.

The 25-year-old Ukrainian moved to the Romanian club in the summer of this year, leaving Kryvbas. He has 25 matches, six goals and two assists.

“I am proud to be here. I want to thank first of all the soldiers of Ukraine, the army, those who protect our country every day. They protect people, in particular my family. Thanks to them I can play football and be here. I also want to thank my family, everything I have is thanks to them. In football, you cannot achieve anything alone.

I am very grateful to my teammates, staff, managers. These people trusted me and my qualities. I feel and appreciate your support. I am happy that I can play football in Romania and do what I love,” said Romanchuk.

After 19 rounds, the University scored 34 points and is in fourth place in the tournament table of the Romanian championship. The club also plays in the Conference League, where it is in 15th place after four rounds, having collected seven points.