24.05.2025 09:01
Petrolul Ploieşti's head coach Mehmet Topal has decided not to extend his contract, which had a +1 year option, after achieving many successes with the team despite economic difficulties, and announced his departure from the club. The team is facing financial challenges due to debts.
Starting his coaching career with Petrolul, Topal left the team in December 2024 due to disagreements and unfulfilled promises. After working with Adrian Mutu for 2.5 months, the management of Petrolul Ploieşti eventually brought Topal back to the team after long insistence.
DID NOT EXTEND THE CONTRACT In his first coaching experience, despite challenging economic conditions, Mehmet Topal achieved many successes with the Romanian team. After completing the season, he chose not to extend his contract and parted ways.
REASON: FINANCIAL STRUGGLES Due to the club's numerous debts, they could not allocate a budget for player payments and transfers, and financial difficulties made the dream of qualifying for the UEFA Europa Conference League impossible.
After the process, Mehmet Topal, who decided to leave Petrolul Ploieşti, stated the following in a message on his social media account: "I have left behind a year that will have a special place in my life. It is impossible to forget this period I spent with the Petrolul Ploieşti team during my coaching tenure. Every moment I experienced both on and off the field, the friendships I formed, and the experiences I gained are very valuable to me. I am now a devoted supporter of this club. I will always continue to support Petrolul from the heart. I sincerely thank all the club staff, my players, the fans, my coaching staff, and the Romanian people who welcomed me. I truly lived this story in the best way possible. Now it's time for new chapters... Petrolul will always be in my heart." In a statement from Petrolul Ploieşti, thanks were given to Mehmet Topal and his assistants for their efforts.