Celtic boss Martin O'Neill has admitted that he feels a genuine sense of disappointment at the loss of Belgian international Arne Engels to West Ham United, but he also recognises that the move presents an opportunity that would be difficult for the player to reject. The manager’s comments came during a press conference held ahead of Celtic’s Scottish League Cup second‑round clash with Dundee United, where he reflected on the circumstances surrounding the transfer and the broader implications for his squad. Engels, who had been a key figure in Celtic’s midfield throughout the season, had previously turned down a substantial £25 million offer from Nottingham Forest during the winter window.
Despite the Hoops’ refusal of that bid, the Belgian was eager to test himself in English football, and West Ham’s interest ultimately proved decisive. O'Neill explained that West Ham wanted Engels to be available for the opening day of the Premier League season, a request that left the Celtic manager with little choice but to accept the inevitable.
"Naturally I'm disappointed that he's leaving the club – he's performed exceptionally well for us," O'Neill said. "But it's hard to persuade him otherwise when an opportunity like this presents itself. If the situation hadn't arisen, I think he would have been happy to stay.
Even when Forest came in with a late offer in January, he never complained. It’s simply an attractive proposition for him and one that’s difficult to turn down." The timing of Engels' departure is particularly significant because it comes just before Celtic’s Champions League play‑off first leg against Austrian side LASK, scheduled for next Wednesday. O'Neill admitted that, ideally, he would have preferred Engels to stay for the two crucial matches before making a move, but he understood the player’s motivations.
The manager highlighted the recent injury to fellow midfielder Alistair Johnston, who suffered a leg‑muscle strain, as a factor that may have influenced Engels’ decision. "You have concerns when a teammate gets injured after a transfer offer is on the table," O'Neill noted.
"Arne likely worried the same thing could happen to him, and from a playing perspective I can see why he’d want to secure his future now." Johnston’s injury, which forced him off at half‑time during Celtic’s 5‑1 victory over Kilmarnock, is expected to keep him sidelined for several weeks. O'Neill confirmed that by the time Johnston recovers, the transfer window will have closed, meaning he will miss the chance to join another club this season.
"He’s been very stoic about it," the 74‑year‑old manager said, adding that the setback is unlikely to have long‑term repercussions for the Scottish international. In the meantime, Celtic have been active in the transfer market, securing the services of Egyptian winger Haissem Hassan and German Under‑21 midfielder Mika Baur earlier in the week.
O'Neill hinted that more signings could be on the horizon, specifically mentioning the possibility of bringing in Chelsea left‑back Landon Emenalo on loan as cover for Kieran Tierney. The 18‑year‑old Tierney, who spent last season at Arsenal, returned to Celtic after a spell plagued by injuries and impressed with a strong resurgence. O'Neill praised Emenalo’s potential, stating, "He’s a very fine young player and we need depth in that position. Kieran did exceptionally well last season after his injury setbacks, and this youngster definitely has talent.
He’s dealing with a minor injury at the moment, but we expect him to recover soon, and I’d love to have him on board." The departure of Engels underscores a broader trend of Celtic players seeking moves to the English game, a league that offers higher wages and greater exposure. While the club’s hierarchy has expressed frustration at losing a player of Engels’ calibre, they also recognise the financial realities of modern football.
The £25 million fee that was previously rejected by Nottingham Forest would have represented a significant influx of cash for Celtic, potentially allowing the club to reinvest in emerging talent and strengthen other areas of the squad. O'Neill’s measured response reflects his experience and professionalism.
Having managed at the highest levels for decades, he understands that player ambition and career progression are integral to the sport. "It’s a shame for us, but it’s part of the business," he said.
"We’ll continue to develop our academy players and bring in new signings to keep the team competitive." Looking ahead, Celtic will need to adapt quickly to Engels’ absence, especially with the upcoming Champions League play‑off looming. The manager emphasized the importance of squad depth and the need for remaining players to step up. "We have a strong group of guys who are ready to fill the void," O'Neill asserted.
"The lads know what’s at stake, and we’ll give them the support they need to perform at the highest level." Fans can continue to follow Celtic’s journey in the Scottish Premiership through live broadcasts on Sky Sports, while the club’s matches are also available for streaming via NOW. The club remains optimistic that the new signings will integrate smoothly and that the team will maintain its competitive edge both domestically and in Europe. In summary, Martin O'Neill’s comments reveal a blend of disappointment, pragmatism, and forward‑looking optimism.
While losing Arne Engels to West Ham is a blow, the manager acknowledges the player’s desire for a new challenge and the inevitability of such moves in modern football. Celtic’s recent acquisitions, coupled with potential loan deals, aim to mitigate the impact and ensure the team remains well‑equipped for the challenges ahead, including the crucial Champions League tie against LASK and the ongoing domestic campaign.