news-engine

ARNE ENGELS signed off his two-year Celtic career after completing his £22million switch to West Ham. The stylish playmaker, the Hoops’ record buy when he arrived in a £11million move from Bundesliga club Augsburg on August transfer deadline day 2024, is poised to make his debut for the London club in their Championship game at Burnley this afternoon. Engels said a heartfelt farewell to Glasgow as he agreed to a five-year deal at the Hammers. The 22-year-old Belgian international took to Instagram to deliver his message. He said: “After two incredible years, it’s time for me to say goodbye to Celtic. “I’m leaving with nothing but gratitude for the time I’ve had at this club. I’ve experienced so many special moments, lifted trophies, created unforgettable memories and had the honour of representing Celtic. “Wearing this shirt and playing in front of the supporters has been a privilege I’ll always be grateful for. I’ll look back on my time here with great pride and carry these memories with me for the rest of my career. “Thank you to my team-mates, the staff, everyone at the club and, of course, the supporters for making these two years so special. Thank you for everything, Celtic.” The champions responded with a statement of their own, which read: “Arne Engels has joined English Championship side West Ham United after spending two years at Celtic. “The 22-year-old Belgium internationalist, who made his Hoops debut in a 3-0 derby win in September 2024, made his 100th appearance for Celtic in last weekend’s 5-1 victory over Kilmarnock. “During his time at Paradise, the midfielder picked up two Scottish Premiership titles, one Scottish League Cup and one Scottish Cup. “Everyone at Celtic Park thanks Arne for his contributions to the club over the past few years and wishes him all the best for the future.” The ton-up Bhoy netted 17 goals – the last coming in the 3-1 Scottish Cup Final triumph over Dunfermline at Hampden that sealed last season’s remarkable double – while also providing 22 assists. Martin O’Neill also wished Engels the best of luck on his career journey and the Hoops boss will now step up his search for midfield replacements with only Mika Baur, the £7million purchase from SC Paderborn during the week, equipped for the role. The German made his debut as a second-half substitute in the 4-0 Premier Sports League Cup victory over Dundee United at Tannadice yesterday. O’Neill will also have to replace Engels who was named in his 25-man UEFA squad on Friday to face Austria’s LASK in the Champions League qualifiers, with the first leg due at Parkhead on Wednesday and the return six days later. WANT TO KNOW A SECRET? Celtic Confidential is the stunning book that brings the exclusive inside stories behind the headlines. Who was the tycoon who would have ruined Celtic? What really happened the night Kenny Dalglish quit the club? The real story behind Mo Johnston’s sensational move to Ibrox. All is revealed in Alex Gordon’s sixteenth Celtic book which is available NOW. Order a copy and get £5 OFF the cover price of £25. Just click SHOP HERE and your book will be on its way. Enjoy the revelations!