Celtic’s head coach Martin O’Neill has openly admitted that he feels a sense of disappointment at the imminent loss of Belgian international Arne Engels to West Ham United, yet he also recognises that the move presents an opportunity that is difficult for the player to decline. The situation unfolded after Celtic rebuffed a £25 million proposal from Nottingham Forest during the January transfer window, a bid that Engels himself seemed eager to reject in favour of a career in English football.
During a press conference held ahead of Celtic’s Scottish League Cup second‑round clash with Dundee United, O’Neill detailed his mixed emotions. He began by stating, “West Ham wanted him to be available for the opening day of the season. Naturally, I’m disappointed that he’s leaving the club; he’s performed admirably for us.” He added that the player’s desire to move was understandable, noting that the offer from Forest arrived very late in the winter window and that Engels never complained about the situation. “It’s an opportunity for him and it’s really hard for him to turn it down,” O’Neill explained.
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, who is now 74 and has recently returned to full duties after undergoing a medical procedure, said he would have preferred Engels to stay for the two crucial fixtures before finalising any transfer.
However, he also understood the player’s perspective, especially in light of recent injury concerns within the squad. Alistair Johnston, the Canadian right‑back, suffered a leg‑muscle strain during a recent match, raising doubts about the team’s defensive depth.
O’Neill pointed out that the injury to Johnston might have influenced Engels’ decision, as the Belgian midfielder could have been wary of a similar situation occurring after a transfer. “Ideally, I’d love him to have stayed and maybe completed after the two games,” O’Neill said, acknowledging that the window for a move was closing fast. Johnston’s injury, which forced him off at half‑time in Celtic’s 5‑1 victory over Kilmarnock, is expected to keep him sidelined for several weeks.
O’Neill noted that by the time Johnston recovers, the transfer deadline will have passed, meaning the club will have to manage without him for a period. He praised Johnston’s professionalism, describing him as “very stoic” despite the setback, and reassured fans that the situation is not a long‑term problem. “It’s a shame for him but it’s not long‑term.
He’ll get over it and be back,” the manager added. In response to the departures and injuries, Celtic have been active in the transfer market. This week the club secured the services of Egyptian winger Haissem Hassan and German Under‑21 midfielder Mika Baur, both of whom are expected to add depth and creativity to the squad. O’Neill hinted that further signings are on the horizon, specifically mentioning the possibility of bringing in Chelsea’s left‑back Landon Emenalo on loan as a backup for Kieran Tierney.
Tierney, who is only 18, recently toured Celtic’s Lennoxtown training complex and impressed with his progress. Speaking about Emenalo, O’Neill said, “I think he’s a really fine young player.
Obviously we need that position covered. Kieran did exceptionally well last season, having been plagued with injuries at Arsenal.
He came roaring back, which was great. And this young man definitely has talent. He’s got a bit of an injury at the moment.
We’re hoping that will clear up shortly, and I think it will. I’d love to have him.” The manager’s comments illustrate the delicate balance Celtic must strike between retaining key talent and allowing players to pursue career advancements. While Engels’ exit is a blow, O’Neill remains optimistic about the club’s ability to adapt, citing the recent acquisitions and potential loan deals as evidence of proactive planning.
He also emphasized the importance of squad depth, especially given the looming Champions League fixtures and domestic cup commitments. Celtic supporters can continue to follow the team’s progress through various broadcasting options, including NOW and Sky Sports, which provide live coverage of the Scottish Premiership.
The club’s management appears committed to maintaining competitive performance despite the roster changes, and fans are encouraged to stay engaged as the season unfolds. Overall, O’Neill’s remarks reflect a realistic yet hopeful outlook: disappointment over losing a valuable player, acknowledgment of the player’s ambitions, and confidence in the club’s capacity to reinforce the squad and meet upcoming challenges.