Sighetu Marmației
Born in Sighetu Marmației, he was raised in Crăciuneşti village, Maramureș County. When he was 18, he made his league debut, playing for Second Division team CIL Sighetu Marmației. In 1981, he returned to Baia Mare, where he played football at a youth level for Club Sportiv Şcolar, signing with FC Baia Mare.