Celtic boss Martin O'Neill admitted that he feels a genuine sense of disappointment at the imminent loss of Belgian midfielder Arne Engels to West Ham United, but he also recognised that the move represents a compelling opportunity that would be difficult for any player to refuse. The situation unfolded after Celtic turned down a £25 million proposal from Nottingham Forest during the January transfer window, yet Engels remained eager to test himself in the English game. In a press conference held before Celtic's Scottish League Cup second‑round clash with Dundee United, O'Neill explained the club’s position and his personal feelings. "West Ham have asked that he be available for the first match of their season," O'Neill said.
"Naturally I’m disappointed – he has been a valuable asset for us and has performed admirably. It is also hard to persuade him otherwise.
If the offer had never materialised, I think he would have been content to stay. Even though Nottingham Forest came in with a late bid in January, he never complained about that either. So, this is an opportunity for him and it would be very hard for him to turn it down." Engels’ transfer is set to be completed before Celtic’s Champions League play‑off first leg against Austrian side LASK next Wednesday.
O'Neill, however, understood why the midfielder was eager to finalise the deal, especially after the club suffered a setback with Alistair Johnston’s leg‑muscle injury and rumours of interest from Everton surrounding the Scottish right‑back. "Ideally I would have liked him to stay and perhaps leave after the two games," the 74‑year‑old manager said, noting that he had recently returned to full duties after undergoing a medical procedure. He added, "It probably wasn’t going to happen anyway.
There was a concern that Alistair played for us while an offer was on the table, then got injured, and perhaps that kind of situation could repeat itself. From a player’s perspective I can see why Arne would be worried about a similar scenario." Johnston, the Canada‑born full‑back, was forced off at half‑time during Celtic’s 5‑1 victory over Kilmarnock on Sunday. O'Neill confirmed that the defender will miss several weeks of action, stating, "By the time he recovers, the transfer window will be closed. He has taken the news very calmly.
It’s unfortunate for him, but it isn’t a long‑term problem – he will bounce back and be fit again." In the meantime, Celtic have been active in the market, securing Egyptian winger Haissem Hassan and German Under‑21 midfielder Mika Baur earlier in the week. O'Neill hinted that further signings could be on the horizon, mentioning the possibility of a loan deal for Chelsea’s young left‑back Landon Emenalo as cover for Kieran Tierney. Tierney, the 18‑year‑old, was given a tour of Celtic’s Lennoxtown training complex recently, and O'Neill praised his potential.
"He is a very promising youngster," O'Neill said. "We definitely need depth in that position. Kieran had an excellent season when he returned from a series of injuries at Arsenal, showing great resilience.
This young player also has talent, although he is currently dealing with a minor injury. We hope it clears up soon, and if it does – which I expect it will – I would love to have him on board." The manager also reflected on the broader context of the club’s transfer strategy. Losing a player of Engels’ calibre is never easy, especially when the team is preparing for a crucial European tie. Nevertheless, O'Neill stressed that the club’s philosophy is to nurture talent, give young prospects a platform, and, when appropriate, allow them to move on to bigger stages.
He cited previous examples of Celtic alumni who have thrived in the English Premier League, underscoring that such moves can ultimately benefit both the player and the club’s reputation. O'Neill concluded by emphasizing the importance of squad depth and adaptability.
With injuries to key figures like Johnston and the departure of Engels, the manager highlighted the need for fresh arrivals to maintain competitiveness across domestic and continental competitions. He assured fans that the recruitment department is working diligently to bring in players who fit Celtic’s style and culture, and that the club remains committed to challenging for titles while also developing the next generation of talent. In summary, while the loss of Arne Engels is a disappointment for Martin O'Neill and the Celtic faithful, the decision aligns with the player’s personal ambitions and the club’s long‑term vision.
The manager’s measured response reflects a balance between emotional attachment and pragmatic planning, ensuring that Celtic stays on course for success despite the inevitable changes that come with modern football.