Former Celtic boss Neil Lennon’s adventure at Rapid Bucharest starts tomorrow as they face UTA Arad in their opening Liga I match.
The 53-year-old made the surprise move to the Romanian capital earlier this year, sharing his excitement to get started in his new role.
He stated: “I am very happy to be here, I know that Rapid is a very important name in the history of Romanian football. It’s an opportunity for me.”
Finishing sixth in the division’s playoff round last term, there is plenty of work to be done at Rapid-Giulesti Stadium if they have designs on claiming silverware in 2024/25.
Timotej Jambor, Cristian Manea and Rares Pop are among the encouraging new arrivals at the club this summer, with Lennon setting high sights on adding another league title to his illustrious career trophy haul [Transfermarkt].
Neil Lennon eyes league glory at Rapid Bucharest
Speaking ahead of his side’s league opener tomorrow night against UTA Arad, Lennon has signalled his intention for Rapid to put themselves in title contention this season.
He stated [The Celtic Way]: “It’s hard to predict, but there will be around five or so teams that will be in the fight for the title. And I want Rapid to be among them.
We have a young team; we must be consistent throughout the league. We have many young players that I am very proud of and in whom I have a lot of confidence.
“UTA have made a lot of changes from last season, and so have we. I expect it to take around four or five weeks before we gel, so it will take time.”
Lennon has extensive experience when it comes to winning titles. He claimed five as a player and another five as a manager during his time at Celtic.
In a different environment, it will be intriguing to see how the Lurgan-born man adapts to Romanian football. His last spell in coaching was short-lived at Omonia Nicosia; nevertheless, he helped them to win the Cypriot Cup back in 2022.
Trophies are in his DNA; nevertheless, there is plenty of work to be done at Rapid to turn them into genuine contenders this campaign.
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