Adrian Popa

On 15 August 2012, Popa signed a five-year contract with FCSB for an undisclosed transfer fee. One week later, he scored his first goal for the club in a 2–0 away victory against FK Ekranas in the Europa League play-off round's first leg. On 27 January 2017, it was announced that Popa agreed to transfer to English club Reading after reaching the final six months of his contract with FCSB. The transfer was made official three days later, with Popa signing with Reading until the summer of 2020. On 17 March 2017, he scored Reading's second in injury time in a 2–0 victory against Sheffield Wednesday at the Hillsborough Stadium.

Loan moves

On 29 January 2018, Reading confirmed that Popa had joined Saudi Arabian club Al-Taawon on loan until the end of the 2017–18 season. The same year on 20 December, Popa moved on another loan, this time to Ludogorets Razgrad, for the rest of the 2018–19 season. On 18 January 2019, he scored his first goal for the club in a 4–2 friendly victory against Hungarian club Kispest Honvéd FC.

Return to Romania

On 16 October 2020, Popa signed a one-year contract with FC Voluntari. On 22 September 2021, Popa signed a two-year contract with his childhood team, Steaua București.

Popa made his debut for the Romania senior team during a 2014 FIFA World Cup qualification against Netherlands in October 2012.

Club

As of match played 16 May 2026

International

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

In April 2024, Popa and his wife welcomed their child.