Celtic midfielder Mika Baur is embracing the combative nature of Scottish football as he settles into life at Parkhead. The 24-year-old German playmaker, a £4.5 million signing from Paderborn, has already featured in the Champions League and is now making his mark in a Celtic side sitting first in the Premiership with 15 points from five perfect wins.
Baur started in the recent victory at Paisley and came off the bench in the win over Aberdeen. He told the Daily Record he is not shy about the physical side of the game, despite his stature. "No, I'm not the tallest! But why should I be shy? It's not only about playing nice football with the ball." Baur said. He described the Scottish game as high intensity with constant pressure in duels and hard fights, an aspect he enjoys.
How is Mika Baur settling in at Celtic?
Off the pitch, Baur is getting comfortable in his new surroundings. "I just got my new apartment this week so I have a lot to do there to feel comfortable with my girlfriend!" he revealed. On it, he is still learning after only his third appearance and second start for the club. His early involvement has been significant, including a cameo debut at Tannadice and starts in both Champions League clashes against LASK.
He is learning from a coaching team that includes Martin O'Neill, Shaun Maloney, and Mark Fotheringham. Baur specifically mentioned Fotheringham, who mixes English and German in his instructions, as a key figure in his adaptation. The midfielder is looking forward to the competition for places within a squad that has scored 13 goals while conceding just three this season.
What is the current state of the Celtic squad?
Celtic's strong start has been achieved despite a significant injury list. Key players currently sidelined include Alistair Johnston, Callum Osmand, Kasper Høgh, Kieran Tierney, and Jota. Fans can monitor the latest availability on the club's injuries page. This context makes contributions from new signings like Baur even more important as the team builds a five-point lead at the top of the table over St Mirren.
Baur's immediate focus is on the next match, a Premiership fixture against St Johnstone this Wednesday. "We have to win that match," he stated, looking ahead to a busy period. He enjoys the rhythm of playing every three days, a schedule that will continue with a Premier Sports Cup quarter-final at Ibrox against Rangers and a Europa League opener with Ferencvaros on the horizon.
What comes next for Celtic?
The fixture calendar is packed. After facing St Johnstone, attention turns to the first derby of the season against Rangers. Beyond that, the team prepares for European competition and a relentless league campaign. Supporters can track the full schedule on the official fixtures page.
Baur acknowledged he was in demand in Germany but feels he is in the perfect place at Celtic. His readiness for the scrap in midfield aligns with the demands of a Celtic side determined to maintain its flawless domestic form. The team's next challenge after the midweek game is a home match against Motherwell, who are fifth in the table, on December 26th. The current standings show Celtic's commanding position as they prepare for this next phase of the season.
