Chris Sutton Furious as Arne Engels’ West Ham Move Sparks ‘Unbelievable’ Celtic Decision
Chris Sutton has criticised Celtic over the timing of Arne Engels’ impending move to West Ham, insisting the decision to sell the midfielder ahead of a crucial Champions League qualifier is difficult to understand.
Engels is reportedly closing in on a £22million move to the London Stadium, with the final formalities of the record-breaking Championship transfer fee now being completed.
The 22-year-old has established himself as an important player at Celtic since arriving at Parkhead and enjoyed an impressive campaign last season, registering seven goals and eight assists in 46 appearances across all competitions.
His performances have attracted the attention of West Ham, with Nuno Espirito Santo keen to bring the Belgian midfielder to East London as the Hammers prepare for their Championship campaign.
However, while Sutton understands why West Ham are eager to complete the deal quickly, the Celtic legend is frustrated by the timing of the transfer.
What did Chris Sutton say about Arne Engels’ West Ham move?
Sutton believes Celtic should have prioritised their own Champions League ambitions rather than allowing Engels to leave before their important play-off clash with LASK.
Speaking to the Daily Record, Sutton said:
> “There’s so much on the line, it’s unthinkable to go in to this match in a weaker position – but that’s what is going to happen with Engels gone.
> “I get that it’s big money and I understand why West Ham want him now, with the Championship kicking off this weekend.
> “But that’s not Celtic’s problem. They had to look after themselves.”
Sutton’s comments underline just how highly he rates Engels, with the former Celtic striker clearly believing that losing the midfielder at this stage could weaken Brendan Rodgers’ side at a crucial point in their European campaign.
For West Ham, however, the deal represents another major statement of intent despite their relegation from the Premier League.
When could Engels make his West Ham debut?
Engels could make his West Ham debut against Burnley if the club completes his registration before the relevant deadline on 15 August.
If that does not happen in time, the midfielder could instead feature against Charlton on 22 August or in the EFL Cup clash with Southampton on 25 August.
The Belgian should not have significant fitness concerns after featuring during Celtic’s pre-season and appearing in their opening two Scottish Premiership fixtures.
That could allow him to settle quickly into life at the London Stadium and potentially make an immediate impact for Espirito Santo’s side.
West Ham’s major coup
From Celtic’s perspective, the timing of the transfer is undoubtedly frustrating, particularly with Champions League qualification representing one of the club’s biggest priorities.
For West Ham, though, securing a player of Engels’ quality is a significant coup.
The midfielder’s performances at Celtic have shown that he possesses the ability to contribute goals and assists, while his age means there is still considerable room for development.
His arrival could therefore prove crucial as West Ham attempt to secure an immediate return to the Premier League.
Sutton may be furious with Celtic’s decision, but West Ham supporters will see the situation very differently. The fact that the Hammers can attract one of Celtic’s standout players even after dropping into the Championship highlights the pull of the club and the ambitions behind their promotion push.
