Celtic Struggles as Johnston Exit Looms
The Departure Dilemma
The recent arrival of Kasper Hogh at Celtic Park brought a temporary boost to morale among supporters. However, the potential exits of Alistair Johnston and Arne Engels have quickly dampened spirits.
Alistair Johnston's leadership on the pitch and in the dressing room has been crucial for Celtic, especially during their title-winning run-in last season. His departure would leave a significant void that Celtic cannot afford to fill before the European qualifier, which is just over two weeks away.
Engels' Future Uncertain
Arne Engels, who was subject to a £25m bid from Nottingham Forest in January, has been linked with West Ham. While Sutton acknowledges the Hammers are a big club and may pay a significant sum, he questions whether Engels should be considering a move to the Championship.
Engels played an important role last season when he returned from injury, contributing significantly to Celtic's title win. However, his stock has risen, making it even more critical for Celtic to retain him until after the Champions League play-off first leg on August 22.
Team Building Challenges
Celtic’s transfer strategy is under scrutiny as they navigate a period of uncertainty. The club seems hesitant to sell key players like Johnston and Engels, but this approach may be risky given the upcoming challenges.
The team's current lineup faces several issues, particularly in midfield where Callum McGregor and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain are 33 years old. Reo Hatate’s future is also uncertain, along with Paulo Bernardo. Mika Baur could bolster the squad but Celtic cannot afford to delay making decisions.
Strategic Uncertainty
Martin O’Neill faces tough decisions regarding his team formation, particularly in midfield and wide areas. The 3-5-2 formation, a favorite of O'Neill, requires more legs in midfield, which are currently lacking with only two experienced players available.
The transfer window is still open, but the club's approach to player acquisitions has raised questions about their readiness for the upcoming season. With Rangers and Hearts also facing significant changes, Celtic’s challenge remains formidable.
Looking Ahead
While there is uncertainty in other clubs, Celtic cannot afford to be complacent. The European qualifier looms large, and the team needs to be fully prepared. Sutton suggests that patience will be key for Hearts under new management, while Rangers may still lack creativity from midfield and wide areas despite their recent signings.
In conclusion, as the transfer window closes, Celtic must act swiftly to address their current weaknesses if they are to compete successfully in the upcoming season.
