Arne Engels: Celtic's next Rising Star
Belgian midfielder Arne Engels is beginning to show Scottish Football why Celtic broke their transfer record to bring him to Parkhead
At just 21 years old, Arne Engels is beginning to show Scottish Football why Celtic broke their transfer record to bring him to Parkhead. The Belgian midfielder, who arrived from FC Augsburg in August 2024 for a club record fee of £11 million, has had a season of growth, and adaptation, but most importantly, promise. While his early days at Celtic Park were marked by inconsistency and lacklustre performances, the second half of this season has seen Engels emerge as a key figure in Celtic’s midfield. His journey is a testament to resilience, talent, and the belief that great things take time.
Engels’ rise to prominence is no accident. A product of Club Brugge’s youth academy, he honed his skills in the youth ranks before making the leap to Club NXT, Brugge’s reserve side. His time in Belgium laid the foundation for a player with technical brilliance, tactical intelligence, and an unrelenting work ethic. His move to FC Augsburg in 2023 was a bold step into one of Europe’s most competitive leagues, the Bundesliga. There, he made over 50 appearances, proving he could hold his own against some of the continent’s finest talents. But it’s at Celtic where Engels is truly beginning to shine.
The start of his Celtic career was a slow burn, even he can admit that. Adapting to a new league, a new style of play, and the weight of a club-record price tag is no easy task for a young player. Yet, Engels never shied away from the challenge. Instead, he has worked tirelessly behind the scenes under Brendan Rodgers’ tutelage, learning the intricacies of Scottish football and building chemistry with his teammates. His dedication is starting to pay off.
His performances have been marked by composure on the ball, incisive passing, and an ability to dictate the tempo of the game. He was one of the stand-outs across both legs of Celtic’s Champions League play-off tie with Bayern Munich, where Engels delivered a superb display in midfield. Despite Celtic’s agonising 3-2 aggregate defeat, Engels’ display was a shining beacon of hope. He battled tirelessly, showcased his technical prowess, and proved he belongs on the biggest stage. It was a performance that encapsulated his growth and potential.
What makes Engels so special is his maturity beyond his years. At just 21, he plays with the poise and intelligence of a seasoned veteran. His ability to read the game, break up opposition play, and drive forward with purpose has made him an indispensable part of Celtic’s midfield. The £11 million fee, once a source of pressure, now looks like a shrewd investment. Engels is repaying the faith shown in him, and the best is yet to come.
Next season will be pivotal for Engels and Celtic. With a full season under his belt, the stage is set for him to become a true talisman for the club. The Scottish Premiership, domestic cups, and European competitions offer the perfect platform for Engels to cement his status as one of Europe’s most exciting young midfielders. He is now becoming a player who embodies the spirit of the club—fearless, determined, and brimming with potential.
Arne Engels’ journey is a reminder that greatness doesn’t happen overnight. It’s forged through hard work, patience, and an unyielding belief in one’s ability. At 21, he is coming good for Celtic, and the future looks brighter than ever. The £11 million fee is no longer a burden; it’s a statement of intent. Engels is here to stay, and he’s ready to lead Celtic to new heights. The best is yet to come, and I can’t wait to see what this young maestro produces next.