Celtic outcast Michel-Ange Balikwisha is set to leave the club this summer after failing to make an impact in his debut season. The 25-year-old Congolese international, who joined from Royal Antwerp for £5 million last year, has made just 14 appearances for the Hoops, mostly as a substitute. Despite being named in Martin O’Neill’s 25-man Champions League playoff squad, Balikwisha has not featured in Celtic’s opening two games of the new campaign, signaling his impending departure.
What went wrong for Balikwisha at Celtic?
Balikwisha’s struggles at Celtic have been well-documented. Despite being tracked by the club for some time, he failed to establish himself as a regular starter. His most notable outing came in a Scottish Cup tie against Auchinleck Talbot, where he failed to make a significant impact. With just 14 appearances, most of them from the bench, it’s clear that O’Neill does not see him as part of the team’s future.
Which clubs are interested in Balikwisha?
According to transfer expert Sacha Tavolieri, three clubs are in the running for Balikwisha’s signature. Serie A newcomers AC Monza, Swiss side FC Basel, and Bundesliga new boys SV Elversberg are all reportedly interested. The player’s exit seems imminent, with a move expected before the transfer window closes.
What does this mean for Celtic’s squad?
Balikwisha’s departure comes at a time when Celtic are preparing for their Champions League playoff matches against Austrian champions LASK. Despite being included in the squad, his exit will not significantly impact the team’s dynamics. Celtic finished third in the Premiership last season with 67 points, just three points behind leaders Heart of Midlothian, and are looking to strengthen their squad for the upcoming campaign.
