HUGE BLOW: Celtic “Outstanding Player” Seriously Injured in Training Ahead of the Gers Clash
Celtic have been dealt a massive setback ahead of their highly anticipated showdown with Rangers, as one of their most influential players has picked up a serious injury during training.
According to sources close to the club, Reo Hatate—hailed by manager Brendan Rodgers as an “outstanding player”—suffered a suspected muscle tear during a closed-door session on Tuesday morning. The Japanese midfielder was seen clutching his thigh after a sharp sprint and had to be helped off the pitch by medical staff.
Initial assessments suggest Hatate could be facing several weeks on the sidelines, which would see him miss the crucial derby clash as well as other key fixtures in the title race. The full extent of the injury will be confirmed after a scan later this week, but early signs are not promising.
This development is a major blow for Celtic, as Hatate has been instrumental in dictating the tempo of their midfield and creating attacking opportunities. His absence leaves a significant gap in the squad, particularly with Rangers hitting top form in recent weeks.
Rodgers now faces a major selection headache ahead of Sunday’s match, with options like Paulo Bernardo and Odin Thiago Holm expected to compete for a starting role. Fans will be hoping for a swift recovery for Hatate, whose quality and creativity have been vital to Celtic’s domestic dominance.
Can Celtic cope without their midfield maestro in the Old Firm showdown?
