Marica snapped up by Shakhtar
Tuesday, March 9, 2004
Article summary
FC Shakhtar Donetsk have signed the 19-year-old Romania striker Ciprian Marica on a five-year contract.
Article body
FC Shakhtar Donetsk have signed the 19-year-old Romania striker Ciprian Marica on a five-year contract.
Rapid rise
Marica, who is believed to have cost €5m, shot to prominence in helping FC Dinamo Bucuresti win the Romanian title in 2001/02. His rapid rise then saw him progress from his country's Under-21 side to full international honours at the end of last year, appearing as a substitute in the 1-0 friendly defeat by Italy.
Among friends
The youngster will be the fourth Romanian in the Shakhtar squad, joining Razvan Rat, Daniel Florea and Flavius Stoican. The club lead the Ukrainian league, with a three-point advantage over nearest rivals FC Dynamo Kyiv. Marica could make his debut in the first match after the winter break at home against city rivals FC Metalurh Donetsk this Sunday.
