Gabriel Muresan, a former Romanian international and Champions League player, has died at the age of 44. Local media reported Thursday that Muresan drowned in a lake.
Firefighters recovered Muresan from a lake midweek and he was transported to a local hospital, where attempts to revive him were unsuccessful. Early reports suggest a possible thermal shock upon entering the water may have contributed to the incident.
Muresan had served as the mayor of the Transylvanian town of Apold since 2020. Following his death, his town hall issued a statement expressing profound sorrow and offering condolences to his family and community. "Our community will keep his memory alive, and will be grateful for everything he did for the people and for the Apold commune," the statement read.
The Romanian Football Federation also paid tribute to the former midfielder. "The Romanian Football Federation sends its most sincere condolences to the family, friends, and all those who knew Gabriel Muresan," the federation said. "May God rest him!"
Muresan had a notable playing career, most prominently with CFR Cluj. During his time with the club, he made over 130 appearances, securing three Liga I titles and three Romanian Cups. He also captained Cluj in UEFA Champions League campaigns, competing against prominent clubs such as Manchester United, Chelsea, and AS Roma.