The world of Romanian football is mourning the heartbreaking death of teenage footballer Luca Manolache, who passed away at the age of just 19 following a mysterious and devastating illness. Once a rising star for Metaloglobus București, Luca’s life was cut tragically short despite months of health struggles that forced him to give up the sport he loved.
Luca’s journey began with promise. Known for his passion, discipline, and dedication, he was considered a talented young athlete with a bright future ahead. His time with Metaloglobus București was marked by enthusiasm and strong potential. However, in August 2024, his world changed. Struggling with alarming health symptoms — including dizziness, chronic fatigue, and bloody stools — Luca made the difficult decision to retire from football.
His sudden departure from the sport raised concerns among those close to him. Despite undergoing tests and seeking medical attention, the cause of his symptoms remained unclear. The young athlete’s condition appeared to deteriorate gradually, but nothing could have prepared his loved ones for what would follow.
On February 28, 2025, Luca fell seriously ill while out with a relative. As his symptoms intensified, he made a heartbreaking phone call to his mother — a moment now etched in the memory of his grieving family. Through panic and pain, Luca reportedly said, “Mum, Mum, I can’t do it anymore,” followed by the chilling question: “Do you think I’m dying?”
Tragically, not long after that call, Luca succumbed to his illness. The autopsy findings were as disturbing as they were tragic: the young man drowned in his own stomach acid after vomiting blood. The horrifying nature of his death left family, friends, and the entire Romanian sports community in shock. Despite previous symptoms and medical visits, the underlying illness had never been properly identified or treated in time.
