Former Celtic loanee Moritz Bauer has returned to his youth club, Swiss sixth-tier side SC Veltheim, after three years without a team. The club confirmed the sentimental homecoming in a statement this week, noting his focus is on recovery from hip surgery.
"Moritz Bauer is returning to SC Veltheim," the club statement said. "To the place where he once took his first steps as a footballer." The 33-year-old defender had been a free agent since leaving Swiss Super League side Servette in 2023 and has not played a competitive match since. The club's announcement highlighted his career achievements, including over 15 Premier League appearances, a game at Old Trafford, and caps for the Austrian national team. It described Bauer as "incredibly down-to-earth, modest, and approachable," adding that his experience and personality are a great asset.
Bauer spent the 2020-21 season on loan at Celtic from Stoke City, contributing to the club's historic ninth successive Premiership title under Neil Lennon. He served as second-choice right-back behind Jeremie Frimpong during that campaign, which also included a Scottish Cup victory. After his loan ended, he had a spell with Russian club Ufa before moving to Servette.
The statement emphasized there are "no pressure, expectations, or promises" regarding his playing future. "After his hip surgery, Moritz's primary focus is on recovery," the statement confirmed. "Whether and when he can return to the pitch remains to be seen." The club expressed hope that he might one day enjoy a few minutes in their blue and white jersey again.
Bauer's return comes as his former club Celtic sit first in the Scottish Premiership standings with 21 points from eight games. Brendan Rodgers's side, who beat Motherwell 2-0 last time out, are two points clear of Rangers ahead of their next match against third-placed Heart of Midlothian at home. That fixture is part of a busy schedule for the current squad, who will be looking to improve on a recent form line showing two wins and three defeats from their last five outings.
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