Rapid vs Universitatea Craiova - Liga I

The history between Rapid and Universitatea Craiova lends this Liga I fixture an extra layer of spice, and when the two walk out at the home ground on May 25, 2026, recent encounters will be on everyone's mind. Mason Mount has been outstanding for Man Utd in pre-season but he could still face fierce competition for a place in Michael Carrick's side next season.

The two sides arrive with plenty to prove, and the Liga I contest at the home ground offers a chance to lay down a marker. When a side is winning 60% of their matches and posting WWWWD in their last five, as Rapid have, the conversation shifts from form to silverware. On their travels the visitors have been workmanlike, WWDWD in their last five and a win rate of 55.56% to show for it. Their respective approaches this season have differed noticeably, and the tactical contrast could prove telling. Man Utd have still accumulated the most points across the league since his return in January.

How the two sides approach the contest strategically will be key. Rapid will want to control proceedings in front of their own supporters, while Universitatea Craiova will back themselves to cause problems on the break. It meant City had a three-man defence of Josko Gvardiol, Abdukodir Khusanov and Ruben Dias when in possession.

Individual moments of quality could tip the balance. Both sides possess players capable of producing something out of nothing, and a single flash of brilliance may be all that separates them. Whoever wins the individual duel between the two sides' chief playmakers is likely to dictate the rhythm and, ultimately, the destination of the points. The 37-year-old former Arsenal and Barcelona forward has netted in each of his first four appearances for the Galician club.

With the sides closely matched, the outcome may well hinge on which team takes its chances on the day. A share of the spoils looks the most probable outcome, with neither side holding a decisive edge — a 2-2 draw feels like a fitting result. The result at the home ground could resonate well beyond matchday in the Liga I picture. It is understood that his next move is most likely to take him abroad - and potentially to the Premier League.