Cristi Săpunaru, a seasoned 40-year-old central defender and former Europa League winner with Porto, has not participated in any matches for Rapid in 2025, despite being in good health and maintaining regular training sessions. According to golazo.ro, Daniel Niculae, his ex-teammate and former president at Rapid, anticipates that Săpunaru will join Hermannstadt. Nevertheless, the decision ultimately lies with Săpunaru. With his contract at Rapid lasting until the summer, Săpunaru must seek a new team if he wishes to continue his playing career. Meanwhile, Rapid is eager to offer him a position within the team, albeit not as a player.