The name Hagi is deeply embedded in Romanian football history, thanks to Gheorghe Hagi, considered the nation’s greatest player. Gheorghe’s illustrious career, which included stints at Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Galatasaray, saw him earn 124 caps and score 35 goals for Romania, participating in six international tournaments.
His son, Ianis Hagi, now 25, was once poised to carry on this legacy. After honing his skills at his father’s academy, Ianis played for Viitorul Constanța and had a brief stint at Fiorentina. His breakthrough came with Genk in 2019, followed by a loan move to Rangers, where he thrived, scoring 11 goals in his first season and aiding in the Scottish title win.
Ianis made his debut for Romania in 2018, instantly drawing comparisons to his legendary father. Embracing his father’s legacy, Ianis stated, “For me, bearing my father’s last name is a responsibility but also an advantage for me. I use it for motivation every day.”
Despite a promising start, Ianis’s career at Rangers stalled due to limited appearances, tallying just 13 in the past season-and-a-half. His international form also waned, with only three goals in 11 caps over three years. To revive his career, he joined Alaves on loan for the 2023/24 season but struggled, scoring only twice in 26 games, both outside the league.
Romania’s coach, Edi Iordanescu, expressed concern over Ianis’s form, warning that his Euro 2024 spot was at risk. In January, Iordanescu said, “If Ianis Hagi wants to make a big impression at the Euros…he has to fight harder and establish himself at his club.” Despite these challenges, Ianis managed to secure his place in the squad.
Now, with Euro 2024 on the horizon, Ianis has the opportunity to honor the Hagi name and fulfill his potential. Romania has only advanced beyond the group stage once in their five Euro appearances, a feat achieved during Gheorghe Hagi’s era, who retired after leading Romania to the quarter-finals in Euro 2000.
Gheorghe has encouraged the current squad, emphasizing hard work and seizing opportunities. “Our mentality is to be the best…Everyone needs a chance because life is about opportunities,” he told Sky Sports.
Ianis now has the platform to prove his worth and make the Romanian jersey his own at Euro 2024.
Full Romania Euro 2024 squad:
- Goalkeepers: Nița, Moldovan, Tarnovanu
- Defenders: Bancu, Andrei Burca, Nedelcearu, Rus, Ratiu, Dragusin, Vasile, Racovitan
- Midfielders: Stanciu, Marin, Cicaldau, Hagi, Man, Mihaila, Marin, Olaru, Sorescu, Coman, Sut
- Forwards: Puscas, Alibec, Dragus, Birligea
Romania Euro 2024 fixtures:
- Ukraine: Mon. June 17, 2pm
- Belgium: Sat. June 22, 8pm
- Slovakia: Weds. June 26, 5pm
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