Martin O’Neill has wasted little time stamping his authority on Celtic, with five senior players reportedly left out as the Hoops returned for the opening day of pre-season training.
The squad reported back to Lennoxtown ahead of the new campaign, but several familiar faces were nowhere to be seen as O’Neill began reshaping his squad for the season ahead.
Five Players Miss Out
A number of high-profile first-team players were absent as Celtic began preparations for the new campaign.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain
The experienced midfielder did not report for training amid continued uncertainty surrounding his future at Parkhead. With his contract situation still unresolved, speculation over a summer exit continues to grow.
Kelechi Iheanacho
The Nigerian striker was another notable absentee. His future remains unclear as discussions over a new contract have yet to produce a breakthrough, leaving the possibility of a departure this summer.
Daizen Maeda
Maeda was also missing after attracting significant transfer interest following his impressive campaign. With just one year remaining on his current deal, the Japanese international continues to be linked with a move away from Celtic.
Reo Hatate
The midfielder’s absence will only add to speculation that his time at Parkhead could be coming to an end. Hatate has been linked with clubs abroad and is widely expected to consider a move if the right offer arrives.
Arne Engels
Belgian midfielder Arne Engels also failed to return with the rest of the squad. The 22-year-old has attracted interest from several European clubs after an impressive debut season and remains one of Celtic’s most valuable assets.
O’Neill Sends an Early Message
Leaving five senior players out of the opening day of pre-season would underline O’Neill’s determination to reshape the squad quickly.
With Champions League qualifiers approaching, the Celtic manager is keen to work with players fully committed to the club’s plans while transfer negotiations continue in the background.
Several arrivals are also expected as Celtic prepare for what could be one of their busiest transfer windows in recent years.
A Summer of Change Ahead
Celtic have already been linked with a number of replacements across Europe as they prepare for the possibility of multiple departures.
The coming weeks are expected to be crucial, with the club looking to strengthen key areas before competitive football returns.
The Bottom Line
Five senior players missed the first day of pre-season as Martin O’Neill began work on his Celtic rebuild.
Whether the absences prove temporary or permanent remains to be seen, but one thing is clear—the Hoops are preparing for a summer of major change.
