🗣️ “This Is Why Players Play for Money and Not the Badge Anymore” 😞
How can you say that to your best player this season?

What should have been a night of unity and support turned into one of the most painful moments of Reo Hatate’s Celtic career.

As the Japanese midfielder made his way down the tunnel following his red card in Celtic’s just-concluded Europa League clash, a section of the home support stunned everyone inside the stadium. Instead of backing their man, chants were aimed directly at Hatate, echoing loudly as he disappeared from view — a moment that has since sparked outrage and debate across Scottish football.

Former Rangers defender and current pundit Alan Hutton was left visibly shocked on live television.

🗣️ “I honestly can’t believe what I’m hearing,” Hutton said.
“This is your best player this season. You don’t do that to someone who’s given everything for the club.”

Hatate, who has been one of Celtic’s most consistent and influential performers this campaign, looked devastated as he walked off. Teammates tried to console him, but the damage had already been done. For many watching, it felt like a line had been crossed.

Supporters are allowed to be frustrated — red cards hurt teams — but footballers are human. And moments like this only fuel the growing belief that loyalty in modern football is fading, replaced by pressure, abuse, and short memories.

💔 “That’s a chant he’ll never forget,” one former Celtic player said after the match.
“It’ll follow him for a long time. Moments like that can break a player.”

Social media quickly erupted, with many Celtic fans themselves condemning the chants and apologising on behalf of the club, while others questioned how the relationship between players and supporters has become so fragile.

One thing is certain:
Reo Hatate will remember that walk down the tunnel for the rest of his career.
And nights like this explain exactly why more players are choosing contracts and security over crests and loyalty.

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