Published • loading... • Updated
Martin O'Neill assesses Celtic transfer chances before Champions League decider amid 'disappointing' departure
Martin O'Neill said Celtic may miss the squad deadline after selling Arne Engels for £22 million and still lack a replacement midfielder.
- On Wednesday, Celtic manager Martin O'Neill admitted Arne Engels's departure to West Ham before the Champions League play-off against LASK was disappointing. The 22-year-old Belgian midfielder left just before the crucial European fixture.
- West Ham broke the EFL transfer record by paying £22 million for Engels following Celtic's 4-0 Premier Sports Cup win over Dundee United last Saturday. The record fee underscored his value to the Scottish champions.
- Before the 11pm Tuesday registration deadline, O'Neill failed to secure a replacement midfielder. He stated, "We haven't been able to get someone in in time to do that," leaving Celtic's midfield depleted.
- Despite the setback, O'Neill expressed confidence in recent signings Kasper Hogh, Camilo Duran, Haissem Hassan, and Mika Baur. He said, "I like the players that we've signed," emphasizing their quality for the season.
- Celtic faces an all-or-nothing fixture against LASK Linz worth up to £40 million in their Champions League play-off. Losing Engels, their midfield mainstay, presents a significant gamble for qualification.
Insights by Ground AI
8 Articles
8 Articles
WATCH Celtic training ahead of massive Champions League tie against LASK
6:30 PM Aug 18, 2026: Celtic trained at Lennoxtown under the watchful eye of Martin O’Neill ahead of this week’s massive match at home to LASK in the UEFA Champions League. Credit: UEFA 2026 // Welcome to The Celtic Way – in-depth analysis, breaking news, and informed insight on Celtic FC. From post-match reaction and tactical deep dives to exclusive interviews and long-form reads, we deliver balanced and relevant coverage on all aspects of the …
Coverage Details
Total News Sources8
Leaning Left2Leaning Right1Center1Last UpdatedBias Distribution50% Left
Bias Distribution
- 50% of the sources lean Left
50% Left
L 50%
C 25%
R 25%
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
