Cosmin Contra: Difference between revisions

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			{{short description\|Romanian footballer and manager}}
	{{Infobox Football biography 2
			{{Use dmy dates\|date=April 2020}}
	\| playername = Cosmin Contra
			{{Infobox football biography
	\| image = http://ro.wikipedia.org/Fi%C8%99ier:Contra_Cosmin.jpg
	\| ~~fullname~~ = Cosmin ~~Marius~~ Contra		\| name = Cosmin Contra
			\| image = 905849-contra (cropped).jpg
	\| dateofbirth = {{birth date and age\|1975\|12\|15\|df=yes}}
			\| upright = 1.2
	\| cityofbirth = ]
			\| alt =
	\| countryofbirth = ]
			\| caption = Contra as manager of ] in 2018
	\| height = {{height\|m=1.80}}
			\| fullname = Cosmin Marius Contra<ref name=Profile>{{cite news\|url=https://www.elmundo.es/elmundodeporte/envivos/fichas/1/192/3776.html\|title=Cosmin Marius CONTRA\|newspaper=]\|language=es\|access-date=15 October 2019}}</ref>
	\| position = ]
			\| birth_date = {{birth date and age\|1975\|12\|15\|df=yes}}<ref name=Profile/>
	\| currentclub = ]
			\| birth_place = ], Romania<ref name=Profile/>
	\| clubnumber = 22
			\| height = 1.80 m<ref name=Profile/>
	\| years1 = 1993–1995 \| clubs1 = ] \| caps1 = 51 \| goals1 = 1
			\| position = ], ]
	\| years2 = 1996–1999 \| clubs2 = ] \| caps2 = 101 \| goals2 = 8
			\| currentclub =
			\| youthyears1 = 1982–1988 \| youthclubs1 = CSȘ Timișoara
			\| youthyears2 = 1988–1993 \| youthclubs2 = ]
			\| years1 = 1994–1995 \| clubs1 = ] \| caps1 = 51 \| goals1 = 1
			\| years2 = 1996–1999 \| clubs2 = ] \| caps2 = 101 \| goals2 = 8
	\| years3 = 1999–2001 \| clubs3 = ] \| caps3 = 66 \| goals3 = 5		\| years3 = 1999–2001 \| clubs3 = ] \| caps3 = 66 \| goals3 = 5
	\| years4 = 2001–2002 \| clubs4 = ] \| caps4 = 29 \| goals4 = 3		\| years4 = 2001–2002 \| clubs4 = ] \| caps4 = 29 \| goals4 = 3
	\| years5 = 2002–2006 \| clubs5 = ] \| caps5 = 34 \| goals5 = 0		\| years5 = 2002–2006 \| clubs5 = ] \| caps5 = 34 \| goals5 = 0
	\| years6 = 2004–2005 \| clubs6 = → ] (loan) \| caps6 = 4 \|goals6 = 0		\| years6 = 2004–2005 \| clubs6 = → ] (loan) \| caps6 = 5 \| goals6 = 0
	\| years7 = 2005 \| clubs7 = → ] (loan) \| caps7 = 14 \| goals7 = 0		\| years7 = 2005 \| clubs7 = → ] (loan) \| caps7 = 14 \| goals7 = 0
	\| years8 = 2005–2006 \| clubs8 = → ] (loan) \| caps8 = 24 \| goals8 = 0		\| years8 = 2005–2006 \| clubs8 = → ] (loan) \| caps8 = 24 \| goals8 = 0
	\| years9 = 2006–2010 \| clubs9 = ] \| caps9 = 60 \| goals9 = 3		\| years9 = 2006–2010 \| clubs9 = ] \| caps9 = 64 \| goals9 = 3
	\| years10 = ~~2010–~~ \|clubs10 = ] \| caps10 = 14 \| goals10= 3		\| years10 = 2010 \| clubs10 = → ] (loan) \| caps10 = 13 \| goals10 = 3
			\| years11 = 2010 \| clubs11 = ] \| caps11 = 9 \| goals11 = 1
	\| nationalyears1 = 1996–2009 \| nationalteam1 = ] \| nationalcaps1 = 72 \|nationalgoals1 = 7
			\| totalcaps = 410 \| totalgoals = 24
	\| pcupdate = 23:00, 24 July 2010 (UTC+1)
			\| nationalyears1 = 1995–1998 \| nationalteam1 = ] \| nationalcaps1 = 11 \| nationalgoals1 = 2
	\| ntupdate =
			\| nationalyears2 = 1996–2010 \| nationalteam2 = ] \| nationalcaps2 = 73 \| nationalgoals2 = 7
			\| manageryears1 = 2010 \| managerclubs1 = ] (player/coach)
			\| manageryears2 = 2011–2012 \| managerclubs2 = ]
			\| manageryears3 = 2012 \| managerclubs3 = ]
			\| manageryears4 = 2012–2014 \| managerclubs4 = ]
			\| manageryears5 = 2014–2015 \| managerclubs5 = ]
			\| manageryears6 = 2015 \| managerclubs6 = ]
			\| manageryears7 = 2016 \| managerclubs7 = ]
			\| manageryears8 = 2017 \| managerclubs8 = ]
			\| manageryears9 = 2017–2019 \| managerclubs9 = ]
			\| manageryears10 = 2020 \| managerclubs10 = ]
			\| manageryears11 = 2021–2022 \| managerclubs11 = ]
			\| manageryears12 = 2023–2024 \| managerclubs12 = ]
	}}		}}
	'''Cosmin Marius Contra''' (born 15 December 1975) is a ]n ] ~~who currently plays for ], usually as a~~ ].		'''Cosmin Marius Contra''' ({{IPA\|ro\|kosˈmin ˈmari.us ˈkontra}}; born 15 December 1975) is a Romanian ] ] and former player.

	~~Offensive~~-minded, he ~~can~~ also ~~appear~~ as a ], ~~and~~ played professionally in ~~four~~ countries (his own ~~included)~~, mainly ~~in ],~~ where he appeared for ~~three~~ ~~clubs~~, ~~namely~~ ], ~~which~~ he ~~helped~~ ~~consolidate~~ in ].		Primarily an attacking-minded ], he was also deployed as a ]. He played professionally in three countries his own notwithstanding, mainly Spain where he appeared for ], ] and ], amassing ] totals of 188 games and eight goals. A ] for nearly 15 years, he represented the nation in two ].

			As a coach, Contra won the ] with ] in 2013 and the ] with ] four years later. In September 2017, he was appointed at the helm of the Romania national team.
	==Club career==
	Born in ], Contra started his professional career at local ], and moved in January 1996 to arch-rivals ].

			==Playing career==
	After three 1/2 seasons with the ]-based team, he was transferred for ]800.000 to ]'s ], where he was a vital player in the ] side's ], his performances earning him in a place in the season's ];<ref>; UEFA.com, 18 December 2001</ref> he also added five '']'' goals in his two seasons combined.
			===Club===
			====Politehnica and Dinamo====
			Born in ], Cosmin Contra started his professional career at local club ], making his ] debut under coach ] on 27 February 1994 at age 18 in a 1–0 win in the ] against ].<ref name=RS>{{RomanianSoccer\|450/cosmin-marius-contra}}</ref><ref name=Druckeria>{{cite web\|url=http://www.druckeria.ro/cosmin-contra-a-debutat-la-seniori-in-primul-poli-uta-de-dupa-revolutie/\|title=Cosmin Contra a debutat la seniori în primul Poli – UTA de după revoluție\|trans-title=Cosmin Contra made his senior debut in first Poli – UTA after the revolution\|publisher=Druckeria\|language=ro\|date=12 October 2017\|access-date=20 September 2022}}</ref><ref name=GSP>{{cite news\|url=https://www.gsp.ro/fotbal/nationala/special-gsp-20-de-fotografii-cu-contra-in-prim-plan-comentariu-cu-comentariu-ce-spune-selectionerul-despre-ultimii-20-ani-ai-nationalei-522580.html\|title=20 de fotografii cu Contra în prim-plan: comentariu cu comentariu, ce spune selecționerul despre ultimii 20 ani ai naționalei!\|trans-title=20 photos with Contra in the foreground: comment by comment, what is the coach saying about the last 20 years of the national team!\|newspaper=]\|language=ro\|date=7 October 2017\|access-date=20 September 2022}}</ref> At the end of his ] they were relegated to ], but he stayed with the side, promoting back after one year. Midway through ], he signed for ] at the request of coach ].<ref name=RS/><ref name=Druckeria/><ref name=GSP/> During his period with the ''Red Dogs'' he failed to win any trophy, the team's best performance during his stay being a runner-up finish in ]; he also made his debut in ], appearing in four matches in the ] and two in the ].<ref name=RS/>

			====Alavés====
	Contra then managed yet another excellent move, as ] giants ] bought him, but his spell there lasted only one season. In September 2002 he changed clubs once more and went to ],<ref>{{Cite news\|title=Contra deal goes through\|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/2231833.stm\|publisher=]\|date=2 September 2002\|accessdate=14 March 2008}}</ref> playing with the ''Colchoneros'' two seasons (though he played very rarely in ], due to a serious ] condition<ref>; UEFA.com, 2 October 2003</ref>). A player of character, Contra was involved, while still with Milan, in an incident with ] player ],<ref>; UEFA.com, 12 August 2002</ref> this being pointed as one of the reasons for his quick departure from Milan.
			After three and a half campaigns with Dinamo, Contra was transferred for ]800,000 to ] in the Spanish ].<ref name=VAVEL>{{cite web\|url=https://www.vavel.com/es/futbol/2013/07/04/getafe-cf/247325.html\|title=Yo jugué en el Getafe: Cosmin Contra\|trans-title=I played for Getafe: Cosmin Contra\|publisher=]\|first=Álvaro\|last=Pascual González\|language=es\|date=4 July 2013\|access-date=18 October 2019}}</ref> He was an important part in the ]' ] in the ],<ref name=UEFA>{{cite web\|url=http://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/season=2000/matches/round=1532/match=67741/postmatch/report/index.html\|title=Liverpool win nine-goal epic with golden goal\|publisher=UEFA\|date=1 September 2014\|access-date=28 June 2016}}</ref> his performances earning him in a place in the ].<ref>{{cite web\|url=http://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/news/newsid=13839.html\|title=Contra voted Romania's finest\|publisher=UEFA\|date=18 December 2001\|access-date=6 July 2010}}</ref>

			Contra scored eight goals in all competitions during his spell at the ]. In December 2021, as the club celebrated its 100th birthday, he was voted its best-ever right-back by newspaper ''Noticias de Álava''.<ref>{{cite news\|url=https://www.noticiasdealava.eus/alaves/2021/12/17/once-cien-anos-alaves-1048373.html\|title=Un once para cien años del Alavés\|trans-title=Eleven for Alavés' one hundred\|newspaper=Noticias de Álava\|first=Borja\|last=Mallo\|language=es\|date=17 December 2021\|access-date=31 October 2022}}</ref>
	Contra moved to ] on loan in August 2004,<ref>{{Cite news\|title=Baggies snap up Contra\|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/w/west_bromwich_albion/3615930.stm\|publisher=BBC Sport\|date=31 August 2004\|accessdate=14 March 2008}}</ref> making his debut in a 2–1 ] defeat to ] on 21 September.<ref>{{Cite news\|title=Colchester vs WBA\|url= http://www.wba.premiumtv.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10366~28712,00.html\|publisher=West Bromwich Albion\|date=21 September 2004\|accessdate=14 March 2008}}</ref> His ] debut came almost two months later, when Albion lost 2–1 at home to ].<ref>{{Cite news\|title=WBA vs Middlesbrough\|url=http://www.wba.premiumtv.co.uk/page/MatchReport/0,,10366~27768,00.html\|publisher=West Bromwich Albion\|date=14 November 2004\|accessdate=14 March 2008}}</ref> The loan was not particularly successful, with Contra playing just six times and receiving a ] in the last game of his spell, in a 5–0 home defeat to ]. He then returned to the ], at the club which brought him up as a player, Politehnica Timisoara, where he managed to be recalled to the ] due to his good performances.

			====AC Milan and Atlético====
	In August 2005, Contra returned to Spain, penning a season-long loan with ]<ref>; UEFA.com, 4 August 2005</ref>(which was made permanent at ]'s end); with the side from the ] outskirts, he was used regularly, battling for position with ].
			In the summer of 2001, Contra moved to Italian club ], but his spell there lasted only ]. On 21 October, in the ] against ] and as his team trailed 1–0, he was brought on as a 46th-minute ] and scored once and provided one ] in the 4–2 victory.<ref>{{cite news\|url=https://www.gazzetta.it/Calcio/Serie-A/Milan/20-04-2024/milan-la-meteora-del-derby-contra-io-terim-sheva-e-quel-mio-gol-all-inter_preview.shtml\|title=Contra: "Io, Terim, Sheva e quel gol all'Inter mi fece impazzire di gioia"\|trans-title=Contra: "Me, Terim, Sheva and that goal against Inter left me mad with joy"\|newspaper=]\|first=Fabrizio\|last=Salvio\|language=it\|date=20 April 2024\|access-date=30 July 2024}}</ref> In August 2002, he was suspended after a scuffle with ]'s ].<ref>{{cite web\|url=http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/newsid=29966.html\|title=Contra and Davids suspended after scuffle\|publisher=UEFA\|date=12 August 2002\|access-date=6 July 2010}}</ref>

			Contra returned to Spain in September 2002, joining ].<ref>{{cite web\|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/europe/2231833.stm\|title=Contra deal goes through\|publisher=]\|date=2 September 2002\|access-date=14 March 2008}}</ref> He appeared very rarely in the ], due to a serious ] condition.<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.uefa.com/news-media/news/0196-0f84508eeb43-9df420baa6bd-1000--contra-set-for-surgery/\|title=Contra set for surgery\|publisher=UEFA\|date=2 October 2003\|access-date=5 September 2024}}</ref>
	In the ], Contra scored in both legs in an epic quarterfinal bout against ], which ended in an ] 4–4 aggregate elimination.<ref>; UEFA.com, 11 April 2008</ref> Earlier in the competition, he scored a ] against ],<ref>; UEFA.com, 21 February 2008</ref> appearing in that match even though his father had died just hours before. Since September 2006, he also became a naturalized Spanish citizen.
	==Poli==
	In late January 2010, after being ousted from the team's lineups by manager ], Contra left Getafe and returned to his country, rejoining hometown's FC Timişoara, initially until June. On 26 February 2010 he made his debut in his second spell for the club, scoring from a 30-yard a ] against ]; two months later, against ], he again found the net from two ], one from ].

			Contra signed for ] on loan in August 2004,<ref>{{cite web\|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/w/west_bromwich_albion/3615930.stm\|title=Baggies snap up Contra\|publisher=BBC Sport\|date=31 August 2004\|access-date=14 March 2008}}</ref> making his debut in a 2–1 defeat at ] in the ] of the ] on 21 September.<ref>{{cite web\|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/league_cup/3655972.stm\|title=Colchester 2–1 West Brom\|publisher=BBC Sport\|date=21 September 2004\|access-date=16 October 2019}}</ref> His maiden ] appearance occurred almost two months later, when they lost 2–1 at home against ].<ref>{{cite web\|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/3988389.stm\|title=West Brom 1–2 Middlesbrough\|publisher=BBC Sport\|date=14 November 2004\|access-date=16 October 2019}}</ref>
	==International career==
	During nearly 15 years, Contra played for ] 72 times, netting seven goals. He appeared for his country at ] and ].

			Overall, the loan was not particularly successful, with Contra playing just six games and receiving a ] in his last match, a 0–5 home loss to ].<ref>{{cite web\|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/4107413.stm\|title=West Brom 0–5 Liverpool\|publisher=BBC Sport\|date=26 December 2004\|access-date=15 October 2019}}</ref> He then returned to his country and ], at the club which brought him up as a player, Politehnica Timișoara, where he managed to be recalled to the ] due to his performances.<ref name=VAVEL/>
	On 1 April 2009, after a match with ], Contra announced his retirement from international football.

	===~~International goals~~===		====Getafe====
			] in 2009]]
	::''Scores and results table. Romania's goal tally first:''
			Contra returned to Spain in August 2005, agreeing to a ]-long loan with ]<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.uefa.com/news-media/news/0254-0d7b20344d77-c32dc92da685-1000--contra-seals-spanish-switch/\|title=Contra seals Spanish switch\|publisher=UEFA\|date=4 August 2005\|access-date=5 September 2024}}</ref> which was subsequently made permanent (he was supposed to have arrived at the ] before, but the move was blocked because the squad had too many non-] players, and his compatriot ] only ceased to be considered a foreigner the same year).<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.libertaddigital.com/deportes/el-getafe-presenta-a-contra-cedido-por-el-atletico-de-madrid-1276258830/\|title=El Getafe presenta a Contra, cedido por el Atlético de Madrid\|trans-title=Getafe present Contra, loaned by Atlético de Madrid\|publisher=Libertad Digital\|language=es\|date=19 August 2005\|access-date=18 October 2019}}</ref> He was used regularly by the ] outskirts side, battling for a first-team slot with ].<ref name=VAVEL/>

			In the ], Contra netted in both legs of the quarter-final tie against ], which ended in a 4–4 aggregate elimination after ].<ref>{{cite web\|url=http://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/news/newsid=683308.html\|title=Crushed Contra defiant in defeat\|publisher=UEFA\|first=Paul\|last=Bryan\|date=11 April 2008\|access-date=6 July 2010}}</ref> Earlier in the competition, he scored a ] against ],<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/news/0254-0d7bce7c5d25-27e2a1045e34-1000--getafe-s-debut-run-goes-on/\|title=Getafe's debut run goes on\|publisher=UEFA\|date=21 February 2008\|access-date=5 September 2024}}</ref> appearing in that match even though his father had died just hours before.<ref>{{cite web\|url=http://es.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/news/newsid=663451.html\|title=Un gol con dedicatoria especial\|trans-title=Goal with a special dedication\|publisher=UEFA\|language=es\|date=22 February 2008\|access-date=15 June 2016}}</ref>
	{\| class="wikitable"

	! # !! Date !! Venue !! Opponent !! Score !! Result !! Competition
			====Later career====
			In late January 2010, after being ousted from the starting XI by manager ], Contra left Getafe and returned to his country, rejoining hometown's Politehnica Timișoara initially until June.<ref name=GETAFE>{{cite news\|url=https://www.marca.com/2010/01/26/futbol/equipos/getafe/1264510841.html\|title=Contra se marcha a la Politécnica de Timișoara\|trans-title=Contra goes to Politehnica Timișoara\|newspaper=]\|language=es\|date=26 January 2010\|access-date=16 October 2019}}</ref><ref name=VAVEL/> On 26 February he made his debut in his second spell for the club, scoring from a 30-yard ] in the ] of the 2–1 victory over ].<ref>{{cite web\|url=http://sport.hotnews.ro/stiri-fotbal-6967880-liga-1-timisoara-iasi-2-1-gol-decisiv-ultimele-secunde.htm\|title=Liga 1: Timișoara – Iasi 2–1/ Gol decisiv, in ultimele secunde!\|trans-title=Liga 1: Timișoara – Iasi 2–1/ Decisive goal, in the last second!\|publisher=Hot News\|language=ro\|date=26 February 2010\|access-date=16 October 2019}}</ref> Two months later, at ], he again found the net from two ], one from a ] (3–3 draw);<ref>{{cite news\|url=https://www.prosport.ro/fotbal-intern/liga-1/contra-lor-pro-cfr-steaua-poli-timisoara-3-3-6047751\|title=Contra lor, pro CFR! Steaua-Poli Timișoara 3–3\|trans-title=Against them, pro CFR! Steaua-Poli Timișoara 3–3\|newspaper=]\|first=Catalin Gabriel\|last=Muresanu\|language=ro\|date=25 April 2010\|access-date=16 October 2019}}</ref> during his second stint, he played mainly as a ].

			On 29 August 2010, Contra scored again from a free kick and again against Steaua, in a late 1–1 equaliser.<ref>{{cite web\|url=http://www.romaniansoccer.ro/stiri/20349/etapa-6-steaua--fc-timisoara-1-1.htm\|title=Etapa 6: Steaua – FC Timișoara 1–1\|trans-title=Round 6: Steaua – FC Timișoara 1–1\|publisher=Romanian Soccer\|language=ro\|date=29 August 2010\|access-date=30 August 2010}}</ref> His contract expired the following day, and on 9 September he agreed to a new deal,<ref>{{cite web\|url=http://violamania.gsp.ro/stiri/12156/exclusiv-contra-m-am-inteles-cu-poli-sunt-multumit-ca-am-ramas-acasa-).htm\|title=Contra: "M-am înțeles cu Poli. Sunt mulțumit că am rămas acasă"\|trans-title=Contra: "I understand Poli. I am glad I have stayed home"\|publisher=Viola Mania\|language=ro\|date=9 September 2010\|access-date=9 September 2010\|url-status=dead\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120310105018/http://mysport.gsp.ro/violamania/\|archive-date=10 March 2012}}</ref> being announced as new ] six days later.<ref>{{cite web\|url=http://violamania.gsp.ro/stiri/12185/gurita-velcea-rotariu-si-bratu-in-stafful-timisoarei--contra-all-inclusive.htm\|title="Guriță", Velcea, Rotariu și Bratu în stafful Timișoarei / Contra all inclusive!\|trans-title="Guriță", Velcea, Rotariu and Bratu in the staff of Timișoara / Contra all inclusive!\|publisher=Viola Mania\|language=ro\|date=15 September 2010\|access-date=15 September 2010}}</ref> His last game as a player took place on 13 November 2010, in a 1–1 home draw with ].<ref name=RS/><ref name=GSP/>

			===International===
			Contra earned 73 ] for ] and scored seven goals, making his debut on 24 April 1996 at the age of 20 when coach ] sent him on the field in the 65th minute in order to replace captain ] in a ] against ] which ended with a 5–0 victory.<ref name=GSP/><ref name=EU>{{cite web\|url=https://eu-football.info/_player.php?id=3818\|title=Cosmin Contra\|publisher=European Football\|access-date=19 August 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web\|url=https://tikitaka.ro/romania-georgia-1996/\|title=România – Georgia 5–0 (amical – 24 aprilie 1996)\|trans-title=Romania – Georgia 5–0 (friendly – 24 April 1996)\|publisher=Tiki Taka\|language=ro\|date=23 April 2021\|access-date=31 October 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.rsssf.org/miscellaneous/contra-intl.html\|title=Cosmin Contra – International Appearances\|publisher=]\|first=Karel\|last=Stokkermans\|access-date=30 December 2013}}</ref> He played three games in the ], being selected by ] to be part of the ] squad, where he was used as a starter the first three matches, helping the team pass the group stage, but did not play in the 2–0 loss to ] in the quarter-finals, being suspended after receiving two ] in the previous fixtures.<ref name=GSP/><ref name=EU/> He made nine appearances and netted twice in the ] ], one in a 2–0 away victory over ] and one in the second leg of the play-off against ] which was lost 3–2 on aggregate.<ref name=GSP/><ref name=EU/>

			Contra made six appearances in the ], scoring a ] in the 7–0 away rout of ], playing six times in the ].<ref name=EU/><ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuro/season=2004/matches/round=1579/match=69300/postmatch/report/index.html\|title=Ruthless Contra cashes in\|publisher=UEFA\|date=16 October 2002\|access-date=30 September 2019}}</ref> He contributed six matches and two goals, one in a 3–0 victory against ] and one in the 2–0 defeat of Slovenia in ], being used in the ] by manager ] in all the minutes as his side failed to progress from their group.<ref name=EU/>

			Contra played four games in the ] and, on 1 April 2009, after a match with ], he announced his retirement from international football; however, on 30 August 2010, the 34-year-old was recalled by manager ] for the ], making his last appearance in a 1–1 against ].<ref name=EU/><ref>{{cite news\|url=http://www.gsp.ro/international/euro-2012/cosmin-contra-convocat-la-nationala-204725.html\|title=Imediat după anunțul că se lasă de fotbal, Contra a fost convocat la "națională"!\|trans-title=Immediately after retiring from football, Contra is called to the national team!\|newspaper=Gazeta Sporturilor\|language=ro\|date=30 August 2010\|access-date=30 August 2010}}</ref>

			==Coaching career==
			===Early career===
			Contra made his Timișoara debut as a manager in September 2010, with a win against ].<ref>{{cite web\|url=http://www.sport365.ro/liga-i-victorie-la-debutul-lui-contra-ca-antrenor-al-lui-poli-timisoara-sportul-2-1/158242/\|title=Victorie la debutul lui Contra ca antrenor al lui Poli: Timișoara – Sportul 2–1\|trans-title=Victory for Contra on his debut for Poli: Timișoara – Sportul 2–1\|publisher=Sport 365\|language=ro\|date=18 September 2010\|access-date=29 October 2012\|url-status=dead\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140310172941/http://www.sport365.ro/liga-i-victorie-la-debutul-lui-contra-ca-antrenor-al-lui-poli-timisoara-sportul-2-1/158242/\|archive-date=10 March 2014}}</ref> Even though the team never lost a game under his guidance, he was sacked after 11 matches – six wins, five draws – because of a conflict with the club's owner.<ref>{{cite web\|url=http://www.rfi.ro/articol/stiri/sport/contra-demis-fc-timisoara\|title=Contra, demis de la FC Timișoara\|trans-title=Contra, dismissed from Poli Timișoara\|publisher=]\|language=ro\|date=5 December 2010\|access-date=29 October 2012}}</ref>

			Contra returned to Spain in July 2012, being appointed at ] side ].<ref>{{cite web\|url=http://fuenlabrada.tuzonaes.com/2012/07/30/cosmin-contra-nuevo-entrenador-del-fuenlabrada/\|title=Cosmin Contra, nuevo entrenador del Fuenlabrada\|trans-title=Cosmin Contra, new coach of Fuenlabrada\|publisher=Tu Zona Es\|first=Carlos\|last=Ullan Ferrer\|language=es\|date=30 July 2012\|access-date=29 October 2012\|url-status=dead\|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130204210454/http://fuenlabrada.tuzonaes.com/2012/07/30/cosmin-contra-nuevo-entrenador-del-fuenlabrada/\|archive-date=4 February 2013}}</ref> He started ] well and, after ten rounds, the team found themselves in a play-off position; however, after an offer from ] in his homeland arrived, he asked to be released from his contract.<ref>{{cite news\|url=http://www.marca.com/2012/10/29/futbol/mas_futbol/1351503563.html\|title=Contra deja Fuenlabrada por el Ploiesti rumano\|trans-title=Contra leaves Fuenlabrada for Romania's Ploiești\|newspaper=Marca\|first=R.\|last=Aizcorbe\|language=es\|date=29 October 2012\|access-date=29 October 2012}}</ref>

			===Petrolul===
			Contra took over at Petrolul in October 2012, replacing ]. In his ] he reached ] of the ], defeating ] 1–0;<ref name=RCUP>{{cite news\|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2013-06-01/news/sns-rt-soccer-romaniacupl3n0ed09t-20130601_1_jeremy-bokila-petrolul-mario-felgueiras\|title=Soccer-Petrolul edge past Cluj to win Romanian Cup\|newspaper=]\|first1=Angel\|last1=Krasimirov\|first2=Stephen\|last2=Wood\|date=1 June 2013\|access-date=5 June 2013\|url-status=dead\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140310182344/http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2013-06-01/news/sns-rt-soccer-romaniacupl3n0ed09t-20130601_1_jeremy-bokila-petrolul-mario-felgueiras\|archive-date=10 March 2014}}</ref> additionally, the club finished third in the domestic league, thus securing ] after an 18-year-absence.<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/news/020b-0e857964d809-b9ed472ae271-1000--contra-fuels-petrolul-s-european-ambition/\|title=Contra fuels Petrolul's European ambition\|publisher=UEFA\|first=Paul-Daniel\|last=Zaharia\|date=29 July 2013\|access-date=29 July 2024}}</ref>

			Petrolul managed to knock out ] in the Europa League second qualifying round and ] in the third, but were eliminated in the play-offs by ] after being bested 5–1 in ] and winning 2–1 at home.<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/23790978/\|title=Petrolul Ploiesti 2–1 Swansea (agg 3–6)\|publisher=BBC Sport\|first=Aled\|last=Williams\|date=29 August 2013\|access-date=30 August 2013}}</ref>

			===Getafe===
			On 10 March 2014, Contra returned to Getafe and the Spanish top flight after four years, replacing ] who was fired after a long run of bad results which led the team to only a point above the relegation zone, and without a league win since November.<ref>{{cite web\|url=http://www.getafecf.com/Noticia/tabid/137/Article/914/Presentacion-Contra.aspx\|title=Presentación Contra\|trans-title=Presentation of Contra\|publisher=Getafe CF\|language=es\|date=10 March 2014\|access-date=11 March 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web\|url=http://www.fourfourtwo.com/sg/news/garcia-does-not-fear-getafe-sack/\|title=Garcia does not fear Getafe sack\|publisher=]\|date=9 March 2014\|access-date=10 March 2014\|url-status=dead\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140519131204/http://www.fourfourtwo.com/sg/news/garcia-does-not-fear-getafe-sack/\|archive-date=19 May 2014}}</ref> His first match in charge came four days later, a 3–3 home draw against ].<ref>{{cite web\|url=http://www.cbc.ca/sports/soccer/granada-getafe-battle-to-wild-draw-la-liga-1.2573608\|title=Granada, Getafe battle to wild draw\|publisher=]\|date=14 March 2014\|access-date=15 March 2014}}</ref> They finally won a game on the penultimate day of the month, emerging victorious at ] 3–1.<ref>{{cite web\|url=http://www.insidespanishfootball.com/102614/valencia-1-3-getafe-getafe-sucker-punch-valencia-to-escape-the-relegation-zone/\|title=Valencia 1–3 Getafe: Getafe sucker punch Valencia to escape the relegation zone\|publisher=Inside Spanish Football\|first=Tom\|last=Conn\|date=30 March 2014\|access-date=31 March 2014\|url-status=dead\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140331010930/http://www.insidespanishfootball.com/102614/valencia-1-3-getafe-getafe-sucker-punch-valencia-to-escape-the-relegation-zone/\|archive-date=31 March 2014}}</ref>

			On 19 May 2014, Contra ] after a 2–1 win away win over ].<ref>{{cite web\|url=http://www.insidespanishfootball.com/108728/contra-its-been-a-very-tough-road-since-i-came-here-as-manager/\|title=Contra: It's been a very tough road since I came here as manager\|publisher=Inside Spanish Football\|date=19 May 2014\|access-date=19 May 2014\|url-status=dead\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140519131223/http://www.insidespanishfootball.com/108728/contra-its-been-a-very-tough-road-since-i-came-here-as-manager/\|archive-date=19 May 2014}}</ref>

			===Guangzhou R&F===
			On 18 December 2014, Contra was named as the new manager of ], replacing ].<ref>{{cite news\|url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/news/article.cfm?c_id=4&objectid=11376922\|title=Guangzhou R&F names Getafe's Cosmin Contra coach\|newspaper=]\|date=19 December 2014\|access-date=4 January 2015}}</ref> He began working officially for the club on 4 January of the following year.<ref>{{cite web\|url=http://sports.163.com/15/0102/08/AEUJTBN100051C89.html#from=relevant#xwwzy_35_bottomnewskwd\|script-title=zh:富力宣布孔特拉下周一正式接手刘殿座确定加盟\|trans-title=\|publisher=Sports 163\|language=zh\|date=2 January 2015\|access-date=4 January 2015}}</ref>

			===Alcorcón and Dinamo Bucharest===
			On 15 June 2016, Contra was appointed at ].<ref>{{cite web\|url=http://www.adalcorcon.com/noticia/cosmin-contra-nuevo-entrenador-de-la-a-d-alcorcon\|title=Cosmin Contra, nuevo entrenador de la A.D. Alcorcón\|trans-title=Cosmin Contra, new manager of A.D. Alcorcón\|publisher=AD Alcorcón\|language=es\|date=15 June 2016\|access-date=18 June 2016}}</ref> He was relieved of his duties on 12 October.<ref>{{cite web\|url=http://www.adalcorcon.com/noticia/comunicado-oficial-2\|title=Comunicado oficial\|trans-title=Official announcement\|publisher=AD Alcorcón\|language=es\|date=12 October 2016\|access-date=12 October 2016}}</ref>

			In February 2017, Contra became Dinamo Bucharest's new coach.<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.dolce-sport.ro/fotbal/fotbal-intern/este-noul-antrenor-al-lui.html\|title=Contra este noul antrenor al lui Dinamo\|trans-title=Contra is the new manager at Dinamo\|publisher=Dolce Sport\|language=ro\|date=16 February 2017\|access-date=23 February 2017}}</ref> He led the team to their first trophy in five years by ] the ]<ref name=RLCUP>{{cite news\|url=http://www.gsp.ro/fotbal/cupa-ligii/video-foto-dinamo-a-castigat-cupa-ligii-fara-emotii-al-34-lea-trofeu-din-vitrina-cainilor-511284.html\|title=VIDEO+FOTO – Dinamo a câștigat Cupa Ligii fără emoții! Al 34-lea trofeu din vitrina 'câinilor'\|trans-title=VIDEO+PHOTO " Dinamo won unexciting League Cup! 34th trophy in the 'dogs' cabinet\|newspaper=Gazeta Sporturilor\|language=ro\|date=20 May 2017\|access-date=20 September 2017}}</ref> but, after advances from the ], he resigned from his post on 16 September.<ref>{{cite news\|url=http://www.gsp.ro/fotbal/liga-1/cosmin-contra-si-a-oficializat-plecarea-de-la-dinamo-stiu-ca-nu-sunt-iubit-de-toata-lumea-si-ca-n-am-experienta-dar-era-visul-meu-sa-preiau-nationala-521005.html\|title=Cosmin Contra și-a oficializat plecarea de la Dinamo: "Știu că nu sunt iubit de toată lumea și că n-am experiență, dar era visul meu să preiau naționala"\|trans-title=Cosmin Contra made his departure from Dinamo official: "I know that I am not loved by everybody and that I have no experience, but it was my dream to take over the national team"\|newspaper=Gazeta Sporturilor\|language=ro\|date=19 September 2017\|access-date=20 September 2017}}</ref>

			===Romania national team===
			On 17 September 2017, following ]'s dismissal, Contra was revealed as the new manager of Romania with the objective of qualifying for ].<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.frf.ro/nationale/masculin/echipa-nationala/intelegere-de-principiu-cu-cosmin-contra-pentru-conducerea-nationalei-romaniei/\|title=Înțelegere de principiu cu Cosmin Contra pentru conducerea Naționalei României\|trans-title=Agreement in principle with Cosmin Contra to lead the Romania national team\|publisher=]\|language=ro\|date=17 September 2017\|access-date=17 April 2020}}</ref> His first game in charge was on 5 October, a 3–1 win in ] against ] in the ] ].<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.telekomsport.ro/romania-kazahstan-3-1-o-gurita-de-speranta-cu-budescu-in-forma-maxima-17239072\|title=România-Kazahstan 3–1 {{!}} O 'guriță' de speranță cu Budescu în formă maximă\|trans-title=Romania-Kazakhstan 3–1 {{!}} A 'mouthful' (reference to Contra's nickname) of hope with Budescu in top form\|publisher=]\|language=ro\|date=5 October 2017\|access-date=17 April 2020}}</ref>

			In November 2019, after the team could only finish in fourth place in the ] behind ], ] and ], the ] announced Contra would no longer continue on the bench.<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.digifm.ro/stiri/cosmin-contra-nu-va-mai-antrena-echipa-nationala-anuntul-a-fost-facut-de-frf-55742\|title=Cosmin Contra nu va mai antrena echipa nationala. Anuntul a fost facut de FRF\|trans-title=Cosmin Contra will no longer coach the national team. RFF made the announcement\|publisher=Digi FM\|language=ro\|date=21 November 2019\|access-date=22 November 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite web\|url=https://newsweek.ro/sport/fostul-selectioner-cosmin-contra-isi-cere-scuze-pentru-ca-a-ratat-calificarea-la-euro-2020\|title=Fostul selecționer Cosmin Contra își cere scuze pentru că a ratat calificarea la Euro 2020\|trans-title=Former coach Cosmin Contra apologises for missing qualification for Euro 2020\|publisher=Newsweek\|first=Alexandru\|last=Pop\|language=ro\|date=6 December 2019\|access-date=17 April 2020}}</ref>

			===Return to Dinamo===
			Contra returned to Dinamo Bucharest in August 2020, signing a two-year contract.<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.fcdinamo.ro/stiri/c/0/i/49316222/oficial-cosmin-contra-la-dinamo-bucuresti\|title=Cosmin Contra la Dinamo București\|trans-title=Cosmin Contra at Dinamo Bucharest\|publisher=Dinamo București\|language=ro\|date=26 August 2020\|access-date=26 August 2020\|url-status=dead\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210305132847/https://www.fcdinamo.ro/stiri/c/0/i/49316222/oficial-cosmin-contra-la-dinamo-bucuresti\|archive-date=5 March 2021}}</ref> He left on 3 December due to the club's financial problems.<ref>{{cite news\|url=https://www.gsp.ro/fotbal/liga-1/dinamo-cosmin-contra-mesaj-pentru-suporteri-617645.html\|title=Cosmin Contra, mesaj pentru suporteri după ce a plecat de la Dinamo: "Vă rog să îmi iertați naivitatea. Nu mi-am imaginat niciodată asta"\|trans-title=Cosmin Contra, message for the supporters after he left Dinamo: "Forgive me for my naivety. I never imagined that"\|newspaper=Gazeta Sporturilor\|language=ro\|date=4 December 2020\|access-date=29 August 2021}}</ref>

			===Al-Ittihad===
			On 29 August 2021, Contra was appointed as manager of ] in the ].<ref>{{cite news\|url=https://www.alarabiya.net/sport/international-sport/2021/08/29/%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B1%D9%88%D9%85%D8%A7%D9%86%D9%8A-%D9%83%D9%88%D8%B2%D9%85%D9%8A%D9%86-%D9%83%D9%88%D9%86%D8%AA%D8%B1%D8%A7-%D9%8A%D8%AA%D9%88%D9%84%D9%89-%D8%AA%D8%AF%D8%B1%D9%8A%D8%A8-%D8%A7%D8%AA%D8%AD%D8%A7%D8%AF-%D8%AC%D8%AF%D8%A9\|title=الروماني كوزمين كونترا يتولى تدريب اتحاد جدة\|trans-title=Romanian Cosmin Contra takes charge of Al-Ittihad Jeddah\|newspaper=]\|language=ar\|date=29 August 2021\|access-date=29 August 2021}}</ref> His team led the league by 16 points over ] in February but ended ] two points behind that team, who he lost to twice.<ref>{{cite news\|url=https://www.arabnews.com/node/2114631/sport\|title=Cosmin Contra apologizes to Al-Ittihad fans for SPL title race collapse, promises strong comeback next season\|newspaper=]\|date=1 July 2022\|access-date=28 October 2022}}</ref>

			Contra was dismissed by the ]-based club in early July 2022, and replaced by ].<ref>{{cite news\|url=https://www.arabnews.com/node/2116741/sport\|title=Al-Ittihad name Nuno Espirito Santo as head coach\|newspaper=Arab News\|first=John\|last=Duerden\|date=5 July 2022\|access-date=28 October 2022}}</ref>

			===Damac===
			On 6 March 2023, Contra joined ] of the same country and league.<ref>{{cite news\|url=https://www.alriyadh.com/2001176\|title=ضمك يعلن التعاقد مع كونترا وينهي علاقته بالكرواتي ريزيتش\|trans-title=Damac announce contract with Contra and end relationship with Croatia's Režić\|newspaper=]\|language=ar\|date=6 March 2023\|access-date=7 March 2023}}</ref>

			==Career statistics==
			===International===
			{\| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
			\|+ Appearances and goals by national team and year<ref name=EU/>
	\|-		\|-
			!National team!!Year!!Apps!!Goals
	\|1 \|\| 28 March 2001 \|\| ], ], ] \|\| {{Fb\|GEO}} \|\|align="center"\|2–0\|\|align="center"\|2–0\|\| ]
	\|-		\|-
			\|rowspan="15"\|]
	\|2 \|\| 14 November 2001 \|\| ], ], ] \|\| {{Fb\|SLO}} \|\|align="center"\|1–1\|\| align="center"\|1–1\|\| ]
			\|1996\|\|3\|\|0
	\|-		\|-
			\|1997\|\|0\|\|0
	\|3 \|\| 16 October 2002 \|\| ], ], ]\|\| {{Fb\|LUX}} \|\|align="center"\|4–0\|\| align="center"\|7–0\|\| ]
	\|-		\|-
			\|1998\|\|2\|\|0
	\|4 \|\| 16 October 2002 \|\| Stade Josy Barthel, Luxembourg, Luxembourg\|\| {{Fb\|LUX}} \|\|align="center"\|5–0\|\| align="center"\|7–0\|\| ]
	\|-		\|-
			\|1999\|\|4\|\|0
	\|5 \|\| 16 October 2002 \|\| Stade Josy Barthel, Luxembourg, Luxembourg\|\| {{Fb\|LUX}} \|\|align="center"\|7–0\|\| align="center"\|7–0\|\| ]
	\|-		\|-
			\|2000\|\|10\|\|0
	\|6 \|\| 28 March 2007 \|\| ], ], ]\|\| {{Fb\|LUX}} \|\|align="center"\|2–0\|\| align="center"\|3–0\|\| ]
	\|-		\|-
			\|2001\|\|10\|\|2
	\|7 \|\| 6 June 2007 \|\| ], ], ]\|\| {{Fb\|SLO}} \|\|align="center"\|2–0\|\| align="center"\|2–0\|\| ]
			\|-
			\|2002\|\|7\|\|3
			\|-
			\|2003\|\|5\|\|0
			\|-
			\|2004\|\|2\|\|0
			\|-
			\|2005\|\|6\|\|0
			\|-
			\|2006\|\|6\|\|0
			\|-
			\|2007\|\|5\|\|2
			\|-
			\|2008\|\|9\|\|0
			\|-
			\|2009\|\|3\|\|0
			\|-
			\|2010\|\|1\|\|0
			\|-
			!colspan="2"\|Total!!73!!7
			\|}

			:''Scores and results list Romania's goal tally first, score column indicates score after each Contra goal.''
			{\| class="wikitable sortable"
			\|+ List of international goals scored by Cosmin Contra<ref name=EU/>
			\|-
			!scope="col"\|No.
			!scope="col"\|Date
			!scope="col"\|Venue
			!scope="col"\|Opponent
			!scope="col"\|Score
			!scope="col"\|Result
			!scope="col"\|Competition
			\|-
			\| align="center"\|1 \|\| 28 March 2001 \|\| ], ], ] \|\| {{Fb\|GEO\|1990}} \|\| align="center"\|2–0\|\| align="center"\|2–0\|\| ]
			\|-
			\| align="center"\|2 \|\| 14 November 2001 \|\| ], ], Romania \|\| {{Fb\|SLO}} \|\| align="center"\|1–1\|\| align="center"\|1–1\|\| ]
			\|-
			\| align="center"\|3 \|\| rowspan="3"\|16 October 2002 \|\| rowspan="3"\|], ], Luxembourg \|\| rowspan="3"\|{{Fb\|LUX}} \|\| align="center"\|4–0\|\| rowspan="3" style="text-align:center"\|7–0\|\| rowspan="3"\|]
			\|-
			\| align="center"\|4 \|\| align="center"\|5–0
			\|-
			\| align="center"\|5 \|\| align="center"\|7–0
			\|-
			\| align="center"\|6 \|\| 28 March 2007 \|\| ], ], Romania\|\| {{Fb\|LUX}} \|\| align="center"\|2–0\|\| align="center"\|3–0\|\| ]
			\|-
			\| align="center"\|7 \|\| 6 June 2007 \|\| ], ], Romania\|\| {{Fb\|SLO}} \|\| align="center"\|2–0\|\| align="center"\|2–0\|\| Euro 2008 qualifying
			\|}

			==Managerial statistics==
			{{updated\|5 December 2024}}<ref>{{cite web\|url=http://www.labtof.ro/profil/cosmin-contra-9654/\|title=Cosmin Contra\|publisher=Labtof\|language=ro\|access-date=10 March 2014}}</ref><ref>{{BDFutbol manager\|454}}</ref><ref>{{Soccerway coach\|cosmin-marius-contra/154361}}</ref><ref>{{cite web\|url=http://www.soccerbase.com/managers/manager.sd?manager_id=2628\|title=Cosmin Contra\|publisher=Soccerbase\|access-date=4 January 2015}}</ref>
			{\| class="wikitable" style="text-align: center"
			\|+ Managerial record by team and tenure
			\|-
			!rowspan=2\|Team
			!rowspan=2\|Nat
			!rowspan=2\|From
			!rowspan=2\|To
			!colspan=8\|Record
			\|-
			!{{Tooltip\|G\|Games managed}}
			!{{Tooltip\|W\|Games won}}
			!{{Tooltip\|D\|Games drawn}}
			!{{Tooltip\|L\|Games lost}}
			!{{Tooltip\|GF\|Goals for}}
			!{{Tooltip\|GA\|Goals against}}
			!{{Tooltip\|GD\|Goal difference}}
			!{{Tooltip\|Win %\|Winning percentage}}
			\|-
			\|align=left\|]
			\|{{flagicon\|ROU}}
			\|align=left\|15 September 2010
			\|align=left\|5 December 2010
			{{WDL\|14\|7\|6\|1\|for=22\|against=14\|diff=yes}}
			\|-
			\|align=left\|]
			\|{{flagicon\|Spain}}
			\|align=left\|21 July 2012
			\|align=left\|29 October 2012
			{{WDL\|11\|5\|3\|3\|for=18\|against=16\|diff=yes}}
			\|-
			\|align=left\|]
			\|{{flagicon\|ROU}}
			\|align=left\|29 October 2012
			\|align=left\|10 March 2014
			{{WDL\|58\|33\|20\|5\|for=99\|against=48\|diff=yes}}
			\|-
			\|align=left\|]
			\|{{flagicon\|Spain}}
			\|align=left\|10 March 2014
			\|align=left\|4 January 2015
			{{WDL\|30\|10\|8\|12\|for=30\|against=35\|diff=yes}}
			\|-
			\|align=left\|]
			\|{{flagicon\|China}}
			\|align=left\|4 January 2015
			\|align=left\|22 July 2015
			{{WDL\|30\|9\|7\|14\|for=37\|against=45\|diff=yes}}
			\|-
			\|align=left\|]
			\|{{flagicon\|Spain}}
			\|align=left\|15 June 2016
			\|align=left\|12 October 2016
			{{WDL\|11\|4\|3\|4\|for=6\|against=9\|diff=yes}}
			\|-
			\| align=left\|]
			\|{{flagicon\|ROU}}
			\|align =left\|16 February 2017
			\|align=left\|18 September 2017
			{{WDL\|28\|15\|7\|6\|for=41\|against=24\|diff=yes}}
			\|-
			\| align=left\|]
			\|{{flagicon\|ROU}}
			\|align =left\|22 September 2017
			\|align=left\|18 November 2019
			{{WDL\|24\|13\|6\|5\|for=39\|against=26\|diff=yes}}
			\|-
			\| align=left\|]
			\|{{flagicon\|ROU}}
			\|align=left\|26 August 2020
			\|align=left\|3 December 2020
			{{WDL\|11\|3\|2\|6\|for=14\|against=13\|diff=yes}}
			\|-
			\|align=left\|]
			\|{{flagicon\|Saudi Arabia}}
			\|align=left\|29 August 2021
			\|align=left\|4 July 2022
			{{WDL\|30\|20\|5\|5\|for=62\|against=31\|diff=yes}}
			\|-
			\|align=left\|]
			\|{{flagicon\|Saudi Arabia}}
			\|align=left\|6 March 2023
			\|align=left\|6 December 2024
			{{WDL\|64\|21\|17\|26\|for=82\|against=95\|diff=yes}}
			\|-
			!colspan=4\|Total
			{{WDLtot\|311\|140\|84\|87\|for=450\|against=356\|diff=yes}}
	\|}		\|}

	==Honours==		==Honours==
			===Player===
	*''']''':
			'''Politehnica Timișoara'''
	**]: Runner-up ]
			*]: ]<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.rsssf.org/tablesr/roem2hist.html\|title=Romania – List of Second Division Final Tables\|publisher=RSSSF\|first=Romeo\|last=Ionescu\|access-date=23 October 2022}}</ref><ref name=RS/>

			'''Alavés'''
			*] runner-up: ]<ref name=UEFA/>

			'''Getafe'''
			*] runner-up: ], ]<ref name=GETAFE/>

			'''Individual'''
			*]: 2001<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.rsssf.org/miscellaneous/roempoy.html\|title=Romania – Player of the Year Awards\|publisher=RSSSF\|first=Razvan\|last=Toma\|access-date=31 January 2022}}</ref>
			*]: 2001<ref>{{cite web\|url=http://www.uefa.com/community/teamoftheyear/history/season=2001/\|title=Team of the Year 2001\|publisher=UEFA\|date=3 January 2011\|access-date=8 January 2016}}</ref>

			===Manager===
			'''Petrolul Ploiești'''
			*]: ]<ref name=RCUP/>
			*] runner-up: ]<ref name=RCUP/>

			'''Dinamo București'''
			*]: ]<ref name=RLCUP/>

	*''']''':		'''Individual'''
			*] Manager of the Month: ]<ref>{{cite web\|url=https://www.spl.sa/ar/news/4077\|title=مدرب الاتحاد وحمدلله .. وحارس الفيصلي والبريكان نجوم شهر فبراير..\|trans-title=\|publisher=]\|language=ar\|date=1 March 2022\|access-date=28 February 2023\|url-status=dead\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230815142339/https://www.spl.sa/ar/news/4077\|archive-date=15 August 2023}}</ref>
	**]: Runner-up ], ]

	==References==		==References==
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	==External links==		==External links==
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	*{{Soccerbase\|id=20190\|name=Cosmin Contra}}
	*{{~~Nfteams~~\|~~5514~~}}		*{{BDFutbol manager\|454}}
			*{{Soccerbase}}
			*{{NFT\|5389}}

	{{Portal\|Romanian football}}
	{{Romanian Footballer of the Year}}
	{{Navboxes colour		{{Navboxes colour
	\|title=Romania squads		\|title=Romania squads
	\| bg = #~~FFE60D~~		\|bg=#FCD116
	\| fg = #~~0045E6~~		\|fg=#002B7F
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	{{Romania Squad 2000 UEFA Euro}}		{{Romania Squad 2000 UEFA Euro}}
	{{Romania Squad 2008 UEFA Euro}}		{{Romania Squad 2008 UEFA Euro}}
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			{{Navboxes colour
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			\|title=Awards
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			{{2001 UEFA Team of the Year}}
			{{Romanian Footballer of the Year}}
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			{{Navboxes
			\|title=Managerial positions
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			{{FC Politehnica Timișoara managers}}
			{{FC Petrolul Ploiești managers}}
			{{FC Dinamo București managers}}
			{{CF Fuenlabrada managers}}
			{{Getafe CF managers}}
			{{AD Alcorcón managers}}
			{{Guangzhou R&F F.C. managers}}
			{{Al-Ittihad managers}}
			{{Romania national football team managers}}
			}}

	{{DEFAULTSORT:Contra, Cosmin}}		{{DEFAULTSORT:Contra, Cosmin}}
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Latest revision as of 09:09, 10 December 2024

Romanian footballer and manager

Cosmin Contra
Personal information
Contra as manager of Romania in 2018
Full name	Cosmin Marius Contra
Date of birth	(1975-12-15) 15 December 1975 (age 49)
Place of birth	Timișoara, Romania
Height	1.80 m (5 ft 11 in)
Position(s)	Right-back, midfielder
Youth career
1982–1988	CSȘ Timișoara
1988–1993	Politehnica Timișoara
Senior career*
Years	Team	Apps	(Gls)
1994–1995	Politehnica Timișoara	51	(1)
1996–1999	Dinamo București	101	(8)
1999–2001	Alavés	66	(5)
2001–2002	AC Milan	29	(3)
2002–2006	Atlético Madrid	34	(0)
2004–2005	→ West Bromwich Albion (loan)	5	(0)
2005	→ Politehnica Timișoara (loan)	14	(0)
2005–2006	→ Getafe (loan)	24	(0)
2006–2010	Getafe	64	(3)
2010	→ Politehnica Timișoara (loan)	13	(3)
2010	Politehnica Timișoara	9	(1)
Total		410	(24)
International career
1995–1998	Romania U21	11	(2)
1996–2010	Romania	73	(7)
Managerial career
2010	Politehnica Timișoara (player/coach)
2011–2012	Getafe C
2012	Fuenlabrada
2012–2014	Petrolul Ploiești
2014–2015	Getafe
2015	Guangzhou R&F
2016	Alcorcón
2017	Dinamo București
2017–2019	Romania
2020	Dinamo București
2021–2022	Al-Ittihad
2023–2024	Damac
*Club domestic league appearances and goals

Cosmin Marius Contra (Romanian pronunciation: [kosˈmin ˈmari.us ˈkontra]; born 15 December 1975) is a Romanian football manager and former player.

Primarily an attacking-minded right-back, he was also deployed as a midfielder. He played professionally in three countries his own notwithstanding, mainly Spain where he appeared for Alavés, Atlético Madrid and Getafe, amassing La Liga totals of 188 games and eight goals. A Romania international for nearly 15 years, he represented the nation in two European Championships.

As a coach, Contra won the Cupa României with Petrolul Ploiești in 2013 and the Cupa Ligii with Dinamo București four years later. In September 2017, he was appointed at the helm of the Romania national team.

Playing career

Club

Politehnica and Dinamo

Born in Timișoara, Cosmin Contra started his professional career at local club Politehnica Timișoara, making his Divizia A debut under coach Costică Ștefănescu on 27 February 1994 at age 18 in a 1–0 win in the West derby against UTA Arad. At the end of his first season they were relegated to Divizia B, but he stayed with the side, promoting back after one year. Midway through 1995–96, he signed for Dinamo București at the request of coach Cornel Dinu. During his period with the Red Dogs he failed to win any trophy, the team's best performance during his stay being a runner-up finish in 1998–99; he also made his debut in European competitions, appearing in four matches in the 1996 UEFA Intertoto Cup and two in the 1997–98 UEFA Cup.

Alavés

After three and a half campaigns with Dinamo, Contra was transferred for $800,000 to Deportivo Alavés in the Spanish La Liga. He was an important part in the Basques' runner-up run in the UEFA Cup, his performances earning him in a place in the UEFA Team of the Year.

Contra scored eight goals in all competitions during his spell at the Mendizorrotza Stadium. In December 2021, as the club celebrated its 100th birthday, he was voted its best-ever right-back by newspaper Noticias de Álava.

AC Milan and Atlético

In the summer of 2001, Contra moved to Italian club AC Milan, but his spell there lasted only one season. On 21 October, in the Derby della Madonnina against Inter Milan and as his team trailed 1–0, he was brought on as a 46th-minute substitute and scored once and provided one assist in the 4–2 victory. In August 2002, he was suspended after a scuffle with Juventus's Edgar Davids.

Contra returned to Spain in September 2002, joining Atlético Madrid. He appeared very rarely in the 2003–04 campaign, due to a serious ankle condition.

Contra signed for West Bromwich Albion on loan in August 2004, making his debut in a 2–1 defeat at Colchester United in the second round of the Football League Cup on 21 September. His maiden Premier League appearance occurred almost two months later, when they lost 2–1 at home against Middlesbrough.

Overall, the loan was not particularly successful, with Contra playing just six games and receiving a red card in his last match, a 0–5 home loss to Liverpool. He then returned to his country and Liga I, at the club which brought him up as a player, Politehnica Timișoara, where he managed to be recalled to the national side due to his performances.

Getafe

Contra returned to Spain in August 2005, agreeing to a season-long loan with Getafe which was subsequently made permanent (he was supposed to have arrived at the Coliseum Alfonso Pérez before, but the move was blocked because the squad had too many non-EU players, and his compatriot Gheorghe Craioveanu only ceased to be considered a foreigner the same year). He was used regularly by the Madrid outskirts side, battling for a first-team slot with David Cortés.

In the 2007–08 UEFA Cup, Contra netted in both legs of the quarter-final tie against Bayern Munich, which ended in a 4–4 aggregate elimination after extra time. Earlier in the competition, he scored a penalty kick against AEK Athens, appearing in that match even though his father had died just hours before.

Later career

In late January 2010, after being ousted from the starting XI by manager Míchel, Contra left Getafe and returned to his country, rejoining hometown's Politehnica Timișoara initially until June. On 26 February he made his debut in his second spell for the club, scoring from a 30-yard free kick in the last minute of the 2–1 victory over Politehnica Iași. Two months later, at Steaua București, he again found the net from two set pieces, one from a penalty (3–3 draw); during his second stint, he played mainly as a central midfielder.

On 29 August 2010, Contra scored again from a free kick and again against Steaua, in a late 1–1 equaliser. His contract expired the following day, and on 9 September he agreed to a new deal, being announced as new player-coach six days later. His last game as a player took place on 13 November 2010, in a 1–1 home draw with Unirea Urziceni.

International

Contra earned 73 caps for Romania and scored seven goals, making his debut on 24 April 1996 at the age of 20 when coach Anghel Iordănescu sent him on the field in the 65th minute in order to replace captain Gheorghe Hagi in a friendly against Georgia which ended with a 5–0 victory. He played three games in the Euro 2000 qualifiers, being selected by Emerich Jenei to be part of the final tournament squad, where he was used as a starter the first three matches, helping the team pass the group stage, but did not play in the 2–0 loss to Italy in the quarter-finals, being suspended after receiving two yellow cards in the previous fixtures. He made nine appearances and netted twice in the 2002 FIFA World Cup qualifying phase, one in a 2–0 away victory over Georgia and one in the second leg of the play-off against Slovenia which was lost 3–2 on aggregate.

Contra made six appearances in the Euro 2004 qualifiers, scoring a hat-trick in the 7–0 away rout of Luxembourg, playing six times in the 2006 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign. He contributed six matches and two goals, one in a 3–0 victory against Luxembourg and one in the 2–0 defeat of Slovenia in qualification for Euro 2008, being used in the final tournament by manager Victor Pițurcă in all the minutes as his side failed to progress from their group.

Contra played four games in the 2010 World Cup qualifiers and, on 1 April 2009, after a match with Austria, he announced his retirement from international football; however, on 30 August 2010, the 34-year-old was recalled by manager Răzvan Lucescu for the Euro 2012 qualifiers, making his last appearance in a 1–1 against Albania.

Coaching career

Early career

Contra made his Timișoara debut as a manager in September 2010, with a win against Sportul Studențesc București. Even though the team never lost a game under his guidance, he was sacked after 11 matches – six wins, five draws – because of a conflict with the club's owner.

Contra returned to Spain in July 2012, being appointed at Segunda División B side Fuenlabrada. He started the campaign well and, after ten rounds, the team found themselves in a play-off position; however, after an offer from FC Petrolul Ploiești in his homeland arrived, he asked to be released from his contract.

Petrolul

Contra took over at Petrolul in October 2012, replacing Mircea Rednic. In his first season he reached the final of the Romanian Cup, defeating CFR Cluj 1–0; additionally, the club finished third in the domestic league, thus securing qualification for the Europa League after an 18-year-absence.

Petrolul managed to knock out Víkingur Gøta in the Europa League second qualifying round and Vitesse Arnhem in the third, but were eliminated in the play-offs by Swansea City after being bested 5–1 in Wales and winning 2–1 at home.

Getafe

On 10 March 2014, Contra returned to Getafe and the Spanish top flight after four years, replacing Luis García who was fired after a long run of bad results which led the team to only a point above the relegation zone, and without a league win since November. His first match in charge came four days later, a 3–3 home draw against Granada. They finally won a game on the penultimate day of the month, emerging victorious at Valencia 3–1.

On 19 May 2014, Contra confirmed survival for the side after a 2–1 win away win over Rayo Vallecano.

Guangzhou R&F

On 18 December 2014, Contra was named as the new manager of Guangzhou R&F, replacing Sven-Göran Eriksson. He began working officially for the club on 4 January of the following year.

Alcorcón and Dinamo Bucharest

On 15 June 2016, Contra was appointed at Alcorcón. He was relieved of his duties on 12 October.

In February 2017, Contra became Dinamo Bucharest's new coach. He led the team to their first trophy in five years by winning the Cupa Ligii but, after advances from the Romanian Football Federation, he resigned from his post on 16 September.

Romania national team

On 17 September 2017, following Christoph Daum's dismissal, Contra was revealed as the new manager of Romania with the objective of qualifying for Euro 2020. His first game in charge was on 5 October, a 3–1 win in Ploiești against Kazakhstan in the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

In November 2019, after the team could only finish in fourth place in the Euro 2020 qualifying phase behind Spain, Sweden and Norway, the Romanian Football Federation announced Contra would no longer continue on the bench.

Return to Dinamo

Contra returned to Dinamo Bucharest in August 2020, signing a two-year contract. He left on 3 December due to the club's financial problems.

Al-Ittihad

On 29 August 2021, Contra was appointed as manager of Al-Ittihad in the Saudi Professional League. His team led the league by 16 points over Al Hilal in February but ended the season two points behind that team, who he lost to twice.

Contra was dismissed by the Jeddah-based club in early July 2022, and replaced by Nuno Espírito Santo.

Damac

On 6 March 2023, Contra joined Damac of the same country and league.

Career statistics

International

Appearances and goals by national team and year
National team	Year	Apps	Goals
Romania	1996	3	0
	1997	0	0
	1998	2	0
	1999	4	0
	2000	10	0
	2001	10	2
	2002	7	3
	2003	5	0
	2004	2	0
	2005	6	0
	2006	6	0
	2007	5	2
	2008	9	0
	2009	3	0
	2010	1	0
Total		73	7

Scores and results list Romania's goal tally first, score column indicates score after each Contra goal.

List of international goals scored by Cosmin Contra
No.	Date	Venue	Opponent	Score	Result	Competition
1	28 March 2001	Boris Paichadze, Tbilisi, Georgia	Georgia	2–0	2–0	2002 World Cup qualification
2	14 November 2001	Ghencea, Bucharest, Romania	Slovenia	1–1	1–1	2002 World Cup qualification – Playoffs
3	16 October 2002	Josy Barthel, Luxembourg, Luxembourg	Luxembourg	4–0	7–0	Euro 2004 qualifying
4				5–0
5				7–0
6	28 March 2007	Stadionul Ceahlăul, Piatra Neamț, Romania	Luxembourg	2–0	3–0	Euro 2008 qualifying
7	6 June 2007	Dan Păltinișanu, Timișoara, Romania	Slovenia	2–0	2–0	Euro 2008 qualifying

Managerial statistics

As of 5 December 2024

Managerial record by team and tenure
Team	Nat	From	To	Record
Team	Nat	From	To	G	W	D	L	GF	GA	GD	Win %
Politehnica Timișoara		15 September 2010	5 December 2010	14	7	6	1	22	14	+8	050.00
Fuenlabrada		21 July 2012	29 October 2012	11	5	3	3	18	16	+2	045.45
Petrolul Ploiești		29 October 2012	10 March 2014	58	33	20	5	99	48	+51	056.90
Getafe		10 March 2014	4 January 2015	30	10	8	12	30	35	−5	033.33
Guangzhou R&F		4 January 2015	22 July 2015	30	9	7	14	37	45	−8	030.00
Alcorcón		15 June 2016	12 October 2016	11	4	3	4	6	9	−3	036.36
Dinamo București		16 February 2017	18 September 2017	28	15	7	6	41	24	+17	053.57
Romania		22 September 2017	18 November 2019	24	13	6	5	39	26	+13	054.17
Dinamo București		26 August 2020	3 December 2020	11	3	2	6	14	13	+1	027.27
Al-Ittihad		29 August 2021	4 July 2022	30	20	5	5	62	31	+31	066.67
Damac		6 March 2023	6 December 2024	64	21	17	26	82	95	−13	032.81
Total				311	140	84	87	450	356	+94	045.02

Honours

Player

Politehnica Timișoara

Divizia B: 1994–95

Alavés

UEFA Cup runner-up: 2000–01

Getafe

Copa del Rey runner-up: 2006–07, 2007–08

Individual

Romanian Footballer of the Year (Gazeta Sporturilor): 2001
UEFA Team of the Year: 2001

Manager

Petrolul Ploiești

Cupa României: 2012–13
Supercupa României runner-up: 2013

Dinamo București

Cupa Ligii: 2016–17

Individual

Saudi Professional League Manager of the Month: February 2022

References

^ "Cosmin Marius CONTRA". El Mundo (in Spanish). Retrieved 15 October 2019.
^ Cosmin Contra at RomanianSoccer.ro (in Romanian)
^ "Cosmin Contra a debutat la seniori în primul Poli – UTA de după revoluție" [Cosmin Contra made his senior debut in first Poli – UTA after the revolution] (in Romanian). Druckeria. 12 October 2017. Retrieved 20 September 2022.
^ "20 de fotografii cu Contra în prim-plan: comentariu cu comentariu, ce spune selecționerul despre ultimii 20 ani ai naționalei!" [20 photos with Contra in the foreground: comment by comment, what is the coach saying about the last 20 years of the national team!]. Gazeta Sporturilor (in Romanian). 7 October 2017. Retrieved 20 September 2022.
^ Pascual González, Álvaro (4 July 2013). "Yo jugué en el Getafe: Cosmin Contra" [I played for Getafe: Cosmin Contra] (in Spanish). Vavel. Retrieved 18 October 2019.
^ "Liverpool win nine-goal epic with golden goal". UEFA. 1 September 2014. Retrieved 28 June 2016.
"Contra voted Romania's finest". UEFA. 18 December 2001. Retrieved 6 July 2010.
Mallo, Borja (17 December 2021). "Un once para cien años del Alavés" [Eleven for Alavés' one hundred]. Noticias de Álava (in Spanish). Retrieved 31 October 2022.
Salvio, Fabrizio (20 April 2024). "Contra: "Io, Terim, Sheva e quel gol all'Inter mi fece impazzire di gioia"" [Contra: "Me, Terim, Sheva and that goal against Inter left me mad with joy"]. La Gazzetta dello Sport (in Italian). Retrieved 30 July 2024.
"Contra and Davids suspended after scuffle". UEFA. 12 August 2002. Retrieved 6 July 2010.
"Contra deal goes through". BBC Sport. 2 September 2002. Retrieved 14 March 2008.
"Contra set for surgery". UEFA. 2 October 2003. Retrieved 5 September 2024.
"Baggies snap up Contra". BBC Sport. 31 August 2004. Retrieved 14 March 2008.
"Colchester 2–1 West Brom". BBC Sport. 21 September 2004. Retrieved 16 October 2019.
"West Brom 1–2 Middlesbrough". BBC Sport. 14 November 2004. Retrieved 16 October 2019.
"West Brom 0–5 Liverpool". BBC Sport. 26 December 2004. Retrieved 15 October 2019.
"Contra seals Spanish switch". UEFA. 4 August 2005. Retrieved 5 September 2024.
"El Getafe presenta a Contra, cedido por el Atlético de Madrid" [Getafe present Contra, loaned by Atlético de Madrid] (in Spanish). Libertad Digital. 19 August 2005. Retrieved 18 October 2019.
Bryan, Paul (11 April 2008). "Crushed Contra defiant in defeat". UEFA. Retrieved 6 July 2010.
"Getafe's debut run goes on". UEFA. 21 February 2008. Retrieved 5 September 2024.
"Un gol con dedicatoria especial" [Goal with a special dedication] (in Spanish). UEFA. 22 February 2008. Retrieved 15 June 2016.
^ "Contra se marcha a la Politécnica de Timișoara" [Contra goes to Politehnica Timișoara]. Marca (in Spanish). 26 January 2010. Retrieved 16 October 2019.
"Liga 1: Timișoara – Iasi 2–1/ Gol decisiv, in ultimele secunde!" [Liga 1: Timișoara – Iasi 2–1/ Decisive goal, in the last second!] (in Romanian). Hot News. 26 February 2010. Retrieved 16 October 2019.
Muresanu, Catalin Gabriel (25 April 2010). "Contra lor, pro CFR!** Steaua-Poli Timișoara 3–3" [Against them, pro CFR!** Steaua-Poli Timișoara 3–3]. ProSport (in Romanian). Retrieved 16 October 2019.
"Etapa 6: Steaua – FC Timișoara 1–1" [Round 6: Steaua – FC Timișoara 1–1] (in Romanian). Romanian Soccer. 29 August 2010. Retrieved 30 August 2010.
"Contra: "M-am înțeles cu Poli. Sunt mulțumit că am rămas acasă"" [Contra: "I understand Poli. I am glad I have stayed home"] (in Romanian). Viola Mania. 9 September 2010. Archived from the original on 10 March 2012. Retrieved 9 September 2010.
""Guriță", Velcea, Rotariu și Bratu în stafful Timișoarei / Contra all inclusive!" ["Guriță", Velcea, Rotariu and Bratu in the staff of Timișoara / Contra all inclusive!] (in Romanian). Viola Mania. 15 September 2010. Retrieved 15 September 2010.
^ "Cosmin Contra". European Football. Retrieved 19 August 2016.
"România – Georgia 5–0 (amical – 24 aprilie 1996)" [Romania – Georgia 5–0 (friendly – 24 April 1996)] (in Romanian). Tiki Taka. 23 April 2021. Retrieved 31 October 2022.
Stokkermans, Karel. "Cosmin Contra – International Appearances". RSSSF. Retrieved 30 December 2013.
"Ruthless Contra cashes in". UEFA. 16 October 2002. Retrieved 30 September 2019.
"Imediat după anunțul că se lasă de fotbal, Contra a fost convocat la "națională"!" [Immediately after retiring from football, Contra is called to the national team!]. Gazeta Sporturilor (in Romanian). 30 August 2010. Retrieved 30 August 2010.
"Victorie la debutul lui Contra ca antrenor al lui Poli: Timișoara – Sportul 2–1" [Victory for Contra on his debut for Poli: Timișoara – Sportul 2–1] (in Romanian). Sport 365. 18 September 2010. Archived from the original on 10 March 2014. Retrieved 29 October 2012.
"Contra, demis de la FC Timișoara" [Contra, dismissed from Poli Timișoara] (in Romanian). Radio France Internationale. 5 December 2010. Retrieved 29 October 2012.
Ullan Ferrer, Carlos (30 July 2012). "Cosmin Contra, nuevo entrenador del Fuenlabrada" [Cosmin Contra, new coach of Fuenlabrada] (in Spanish). Tu Zona Es. Archived from the original on 4 February 2013. Retrieved 29 October 2012.
Aizcorbe, R. (29 October 2012). "Contra deja Fuenlabrada por el Ploiesti rumano" [Contra leaves Fuenlabrada for Romania's Ploiești]. Marca (in Spanish). Retrieved 29 October 2012.
^ Krasimirov, Angel; Wood, Stephen (1 June 2013). "Soccer-Petrolul edge past Cluj to win Romanian Cup". Chicago Tribune. Archived from the original on 10 March 2014. Retrieved 5 June 2013.
Zaharia, Paul-Daniel (29 July 2013). "Contra fuels Petrolul's European ambition". UEFA. Retrieved 29 July 2024.
Williams, Aled (29 August 2013). "Petrolul Ploiesti 2–1 Swansea (agg 3–6)". BBC Sport. Retrieved 30 August 2013.
"Presentación Contra" [Presentation of Contra] (in Spanish). Getafe CF. 10 March 2014. Retrieved 11 March 2014.
"Garcia does not fear Getafe sack". FourFourTwo. 9 March 2014. Archived from the original on 19 May 2014. Retrieved 10 March 2014.
"Granada, Getafe battle to wild draw". CBS Sports. 14 March 2014. Retrieved 15 March 2014.
Conn, Tom (30 March 2014). "Valencia 1–3 Getafe: Getafe sucker punch Valencia to escape the relegation zone". Inside Spanish Football. Archived from the original on 31 March 2014. Retrieved 31 March 2014.
"Contra: It's been a very tough road since I came here as manager". Inside Spanish Football. 19 May 2014. Archived from the original on 19 May 2014. Retrieved 19 May 2014.
"Guangzhou R&F names Getafe's Cosmin Contra coach". The New Zealand Herald. 19 December 2014. Retrieved 4 January 2015.
富力宣布孔特拉下周一正式接手刘殿座确定加盟 (in Chinese). Sports 163. 2 January 2015. Retrieved 4 January 2015.
"Cosmin Contra, nuevo entrenador de la A.D. Alcorcón" [Cosmin Contra, new manager of A.D. Alcorcón] (in Spanish). AD Alcorcón. 15 June 2016. Retrieved 18 June 2016.
"Comunicado oficial" [Official announcement] (in Spanish). AD Alcorcón. 12 October 2016. Retrieved 12 October 2016.
"Contra este noul antrenor al lui Dinamo" [Contra is the new manager at Dinamo] (in Romanian). Dolce Sport. 16 February 2017. Retrieved 23 February 2017.
^ "VIDEO+FOTO – Dinamo a câștigat Cupa Ligii fără emoții! Al 34-lea trofeu din vitrina 'câinilor'" [VIDEO+PHOTO " Dinamo won unexciting League Cup! 34th trophy in the 'dogs' cabinet]. Gazeta Sporturilor (in Romanian). 20 May 2017. Retrieved 20 September 2017.
"Cosmin Contra și-a oficializat plecarea de la Dinamo: "Știu că nu sunt iubit de toată lumea și că n-am experiență, dar era visul meu să preiau naționala"" [Cosmin Contra made his departure from Dinamo official: "I know that I am not loved by everybody and that I have no experience, but it was my dream to take over the national team"]. Gazeta Sporturilor (in Romanian). 19 September 2017. Retrieved 20 September 2017.
"Înțelegere de principiu cu Cosmin Contra pentru conducerea Naționalei României" [Agreement in principle with Cosmin Contra to lead the Romania national team] (in Romanian). Romanian Football Federation. 17 September 2017. Retrieved 17 April 2020.
"România-Kazahstan 3–1 | O 'guriță' de speranță cu Budescu în formă maximă" [Romania-Kazakhstan 3–1 | A 'mouthful' (reference to Contra's nickname) of hope with Budescu in top form] (in Romanian). Telekom TV. 5 October 2017. Retrieved 17 April 2020.
"Cosmin Contra nu va mai antrena echipa nationala. Anuntul a fost facut de FRF" [Cosmin Contra will no longer coach the national team. RFF made the announcement] (in Romanian). Digi FM. 21 November 2019. Retrieved 22 November 2019.
Pop, Alexandru (6 December 2019). "Fostul selecționer Cosmin Contra își cere scuze pentru că a ratat calificarea la Euro 2020" [Former coach Cosmin Contra apologises for missing qualification for Euro 2020] (in Romanian). Newsweek. Retrieved 17 April 2020.
"Cosmin Contra la Dinamo București" [Cosmin Contra at Dinamo Bucharest] (in Romanian). Dinamo București. 26 August 2020. Archived from the original on 5 March 2021. Retrieved 26 August 2020.
"Cosmin Contra, mesaj pentru suporteri după ce a plecat de la Dinamo: "Vă rog să îmi iertați naivitatea. Nu mi-am imaginat niciodată asta"" [Cosmin Contra, message for the supporters after he left Dinamo: "Forgive me for my naivety. I never imagined that"]. Gazeta Sporturilor (in Romanian). 4 December 2020. Retrieved 29 August 2021.
"الروماني كوزمين كونترا يتولى تدريب اتحاد جدة" [Romanian Cosmin Contra takes charge of Al-Ittihad Jeddah]. Al Arabiya (in Arabic). 29 August 2021. Retrieved 29 August 2021.
"Cosmin Contra apologizes to Al-Ittihad fans for SPL title race collapse, promises strong comeback next season". Arab News. 1 July 2022. Retrieved 28 October 2022.
Duerden, John (5 July 2022). "Al-Ittihad name Nuno Espirito Santo as head coach". Arab News. Retrieved 28 October 2022.
"ضمك يعلن التعاقد مع كونترا وينهي علاقته بالكرواتي ريزيتش" [Damac announce contract with Contra and end relationship with Croatia's Režić]. Al Riyadh (in Arabic). 6 March 2023. Retrieved 7 March 2023.
"Cosmin Contra" (in Romanian). Labtof. Retrieved 10 March 2014.
Cosmin Contra manager profile at BDFutbol
Cosmin Contra coach profile at Soccerway
"Cosmin Contra". Soccerbase. Retrieved 4 January 2015.
Ionescu, Romeo. "Romania – List of Second Division Final Tables". RSSSF. Retrieved 23 October 2022.
Toma, Razvan. "Romania – Player of the Year Awards". RSSSF. Retrieved 31 January 2022.
"Team of the Year 2001". UEFA. 3 January 2011. Retrieved 8 January 2016.
"مدرب الاتحاد وحمدلله .. وحارس الفيصلي والبريكان نجوم شهر فبراير." (in Arabic). Saudi Professional League. 1 March 2022. Archived from the original on 15 August 2023. Retrieved 28 February 2023.

External links

Cosmin Contra at RomanianSoccer.ro (in Romanian)
Cosmin Contra at BDFutbol
Cosmin Contra manager profile at BDFutbol
Cosmin Contra at Soccerbase
Cosmin Contra at National-Football-Teams.com

Romania squads

v t e Romania squad – UEFA Euro 2000
1 Lobonț 2 Petrescu 3 Ciobotariu 4 Filipescu 5 Gâlcă 6 Popescu 7 Mutu 8 Munteanu 9 Moldovan 10 Hagi (c) 11 Ilie 12 Stelea 13 Chivu 14 Petre 15 Lupescu 16 Roșu 17 Belodedici 18 Ganea 19 Lincar 20 Hîldan 21 Prunea 22 Contra Coach: Jenei

v t e Romania squad – UEFA Euro 2008
1 Lobonț 2 Contra 3 Raț 4 Tamaș 5 Chivu (c) 6 Rădoi 7 Petre 8 Codrea 9 Marica 10 Mutu 11 Cociș 12 Popa 13 Săpunaru 14 Ghionea 15 Goian 16 Nicoliță 17 Moți 18 M. Niculae 19 Cristea 20 Dică 21 D. Niculae 22 Radu 23 Stăncioiu Coach: Pițurcă

Awards

v t e 2001 UEFA Team of the Year
GK: Cañizares RB: Contra CB: Hyypiä CB: Andersson LB: Lizarazu RM: Beckham CM: Vieira AM: Zidane LM: González CF: Henry CF: Trezeguet Coach: Houllier