Patryk Klimala's Celtic departure hasn't gone down well with fans

By David Walton

April 22, 2021

It appears that confirmation of Patryk Klimala’s Celtic departure hasn’t gone down too well with the Parkhead support.

The deal to take the Poland under-21 international to New York Red Bulls was officially completed today. It comes a week after interim manager John Kennedy effectively confirmed a deal was close to being done [Glasgow Times].

Klimala was signed back in January 2020 in a deal worth a reported £3.5million [Scottish Sun]. But in an impressive move by Chief Executive Peter Lawwell, it’s been reported in recent times that Celtic have managed to recoup what they splashed out on Klimala plus add-ons [Glasgow Times].

But his time here has been absolutely full of regrets. Klimala may only have three goals in 24 appearances this season, but it’s vital to point out that he’s only featured for 580 minutes [Transfermarkt]. That’s the equivalent of just under six-and-a-half games of football.

All of a sudden when looking at in that way, his record this term actually isn’t too bad.

Patryk Klimala’s Celtic departure will divide many

Nobody will ever know whether Klimala could’ve made it here. There were times such as cameos against Hamilton and St Johnstone where he looked like he had something promising. A turn of pace that would trouble most Scottish Premiership sides. On other occasions? He struggled badly, especially against higher quality opposition such as Rangers and AC Milan respectively.

But it’s not just because of Klimala’s potential that many fans are frustrated. It’s the idea that deals are being done even before we bring a new manager through the door.

Patryk Klimala with Neil Lennon / (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

I’ve spoken in the past about how this is a great deal for the club. It didn’t look as though Patryk truly had what it took to succeed here. Therefore, when you take everything into perspective, recouping our fee and eventually getting more for him looked a great deal on paper.

It’ll be intriguing to see how his MLS career pans out and what he does with more regular opportunities. It’s very understandable to hear fans say that this could be one we regret further down the line.

But when you truly analyse this one, all we’ll made to regret is the poor recruitment decision to bring him in from the beginning.

Here’s a look at how fans have reacted to Klimala’s official exit.

https://twitter.com/Brendan20_/status/1385224287305469962

In other news, a Man Utd legend has posted a Celtic-themed throwback today.