 Aged 18, Stângaciu signs for FC Braşov but after only two years is signed by Steaua Bucureşti, being the second goalkeeper option of the coach Emerich Jenei.As Helmuth Duckadam retired from football in 1986, Stângaciu becomes the first option of the new coach, Anghel Iordănescu.He spent the season 1988–1989 on loan to FC Olt Scorniceşti, as Steaua preferred to sign Silviu Lung, but returned in Bucharest one year later.