Celtic's recent success has been built on the foundations laid by a trio of key players: Arne Engels, Daizen Maeda, and Callum McGregor. Each brings a unique set of skills and experiences to the team, and their contributions have been invaluable.
The Impact of Engels and Maeda
Arne Engels, a young Belgian midfielder, arrived at Celtic with big shoes to fill, replacing Matt O'Riley. While he hasn't quite matched O'Riley's goal-scoring feats, Engels has proven himself as a consistent scorer and provider from midfield. His two recent goals in crucial matches against Heart of Midlothian and Dunfermline Athletic demonstrate his ability to step up in big moments.
Daizen Maeda, the forward, has been a consistent performer for Celtic, with his peak season seeing him score an impressive 33 goals in 51 appearances. His versatility and World Cup experience with Japan make him a valuable asset, as highlighted by former manager Ange Postecoglu.
The Captain's Influence
Callum McGregor, the captain, is a true Celtic legend. With 26 honours and 11 league wins under his belt, he has been the heartbeat of the team for over a decade. His leadership and experience are invaluable, and his decision to prioritize Celtic over his international career speaks volumes about his loyalty.
A Potential Departure?
Speculation surrounding McGregor's future has been rife, with reports suggesting a move to Saudi Arabia with former boss Brendan Rodgers. At 33, McGregor has earned the right to consider his options, and with two years left on his contract, Celtic would be well-compensated for his departure.
The potential loss of McGregor, along with Engels and Maeda, would create a significant void in the team. Their experience, leadership, and goal-scoring abilities are irreplaceable, and their exits would require a major rebuild.
Looking Ahead
As Celtic prepare for the new season, the focus will be on retaining their Premiership title and making a strong showing in the Champions League. The upcoming fixtures, including the crucial play-off round, will be a true test of the team's strength and resilience.
Manager O'Neill has hinted at a more purposeful style of play, but the true impact of his tactics will only be seen once the season gets underway. With a talented squad and a strong core of players, Celtic have the potential to achieve great things, but the potential departures of key players could disrupt their plans.
Personally, I think the next few months will be crucial for Celtic. The club must navigate the transfer market wisely, balancing the need to retain their best players with the opportunity to bring in fresh talent. It's a delicate balance, and one that could define their success or failure in the upcoming season.
