Champions League

O'Neill: No new signings at Celtic before facing the

26 August 2026·5 min read·Victoria Velasco
O'Neill: No new signings at Celtic before facing the

Coach Martin O'Neill has stressed that Celtic are not expecting a new signing ahead of Wednesday's Champions League play-off first leg against LASK and insists he is happy for Reo Hatate to stay.

O'Neill: No new signings at Celtic before facing

According to Sports.

Context

Reo Hatate is an integral part of Celtic's midfield, capable of providing support in defense while contributing in attack. His performance in UEFA Champions League matches could raise his profile in the transfer market, especially if he can put in a good game against LASK. His continued presence at the club shows the value of player development and continuity in a team with high European ambitions.

Why it matters

Celtic's match against LASK is not only an important step towards the UEFA Champions League but also a test of the stability of their current lineup. Reo Hatate's presence in midfield is critical, especially in high-level matches in Europe, where his ability to link defense and attack can be key to success. O'Neill's decision not to bring in a new signing reflects confidence in the current group and the need for continuity amid challenges in the transfer market.

Key Points

  • O'Neill: No new signings at Celtic before facing.
  • No new arrivals are expected at Celtic ahead of the Champions League play-off first leg against LASK, according to Martin O'Neill.
  • New Celtic signings unlikely before LASK tie - O'Neill.
Coach Martin O'Neill has laid out a clear message ahead of Celtic's big Champions League clash: the club will not expect any new signings ahead of Wednesday's play-off first leg against LASK. Amid market talks, he also stressed that he would be happy if midfielder Reo Hatate stayed in Glasgow. Celtic's scheduled home clash is important as it is the first leg of a two-legged play-off that will decide who advances to the main stage of this season's Champions League. The stakes are high—prestige in Europe, a boost of confidence within the team, and a huge financial benefit for the club that makes it through. In the matter of transfer, O'Neill's position is clear: he no longer expects immediate reinforcements before clashing with LASK. Instead, Celtic are focusing on the current group who are used to the team system. In the face of short intervals between matches and the transfer window still open, O'Neill's emphasis on the stability and chemistry of the current squad is logical. In this regard, the coach valued the presence of Reo Hatate, one of the important pieces in the middle of Celtic. With so many tough matches in Europe, a hard-working and technical midfielder who can link defense and attack will make a big contribution. Hatate's insistence that he is happy to stay is an indication of the importance of continuity and balance in the midfield in the face of the intense pressure of the play-offs. Also not to be underestimated are LASK, a team from Austria that is used to tough European qualifiers. The visitors are expected to bring a disciplined and organized defence, accompanied by a quick attack when there is space. Because of this, expect Celtic to focus on ball control, early pressure, and careful rhythm control in the middle so as not to be overwhelmed by the opponent's sudden passes and transitions. For Celtic supporters, the plan was clear: force a result in the home leg and take advantage in the second leg. In the absence of a new signing before Wednesday, the familiarity and cohesiveness of the group will be a mainstay. And if Hatate stays, it will add confidence for the central line, which is critical in blocking and developing attacks. In the end, O'Neill's message was simple but strong: no distraction from the market and full attention to the match. The first leg against LASK is the real measure—and here Celtic will want to show that the current record is strong enough to reach the goal of keeping up with Europe's strongest.

What's next

Ahead of the match, Celtic are focused on preparing their current squad, with the aim of maintaining good chemistry within the team. The result of the match against LASK could set the tone for their UEFA Champions League campaign, and Hatate's performance will be crucial to their ambitions. Despite the open transfer window, Celtic's focus seems to be on building their current squad rather than securing a new midfield signing as soon as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the main character in the article?

The main character in the article is Reo Hatate, a Celtic midfielder.

What is Reo Hatate's position at Celtic?

Reo Hatate is a midfielder who is important in the heart of Celtic.

Why is Celtic's match against LASK important?

The match is important because it is the first leg of the play-off that will decide who advances to the main stage of the Champions League.

What did Martin O'Neill say about the new signings?

Martin O'Neill said not to expect it Celtic have any new signings ahead of the match against LASK.

What is Celtic's position in the transfer market?

Celtic are focusing on the current group of players and are not expecting immediate reinforcements before the match.

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Mga Madalas na Itanong

Who is the main character in the article?
The main character in the article is Reo Hatate, a Celtic midfielder.
What is Reo Hatate's position at Celtic?
Reo Hatate is a midfielder who is integral to Celtic's heart.
Why is Celtic's match against LASK important?
The match is important as it is the first leg of the play-off that will decide who advances to the main stage of the Champions League.
What did Martin O'Neill say about the new signings?
Martin O'Neill says Celtic will not expect any new signings ahead of the match against LASK.
What is Celtic's position in the transfer market?
Celtic are focusing on the current group of players and are not expecting immediate reinforcements before the match.
Who is Reo Hatate in this story?
Reo Hatate is the main player involved in this transfer rumor update.
What is the player's current situation?
The article discusses Reo Hatate's situation based on the latest reporting.
Champions LeagueUEFA Champions LeagueCelticLASKReo Hatate

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