There are many positives to take despite Celtic’s Champions League exit.
The revamped Champions League format was supposed to work in Celtic’s favour and they have backed it up by producing.
Yes, many will be disappointed by Alphonso Davies’ killer goal helping Bayern Munich reach the round of 16, but there is a lot to look forward to.
Celtic fans should be rightfully excited for next season because the squad, the XI and especially the depth, will be much stronger.
But so will those players currently donning the colours and Chris Sutton wanted to give his flowers to one player, in particular.
Chris Sutton says Arne Engels played his ‘best game’ for Celtic against Bayern Munich
Matt O’Riley’s exit in the summer was a blow, but expected as the powers that be at Celtic Park brought in club-record signing, Arne Engels with that money.
The rising Belgium star has shown flashes of his brilliance, but also that he is still learning and reaching the next level.
But Sutton highlighted how his display at the Allianz Arena was the best yet, as he told Match of the Day.
“I think the balance Celtic played with, they played out through the back, but were confident at times to go direct when you see the Bayern Munich team press them,” said Sutton.
“I thought Celtic were sensational all night. They were brave with the press when they had to be. Arne Engels probably had his best game for Celtic against Munich.
On Celtic’s kicking on in Europe: “It’s about getting a foothold in the Champions League now. This is just the start. This season, Celtic were always going to be judged on the Champions League and they have shown that they have progressed.
“I think they have to go through a qualifier next season, which is always tricky, but I think the way they performed. Going to Bayern Munich and having that level of performance and confidence.
“I can’t remember the last Celtic side to go away in Europe, against a big team, and play with that balance, so they can be immensely proud. It’s about kicking on next season now.”
Engels’ stats for Celtic against Bayern Munich
Nicolas Kuhn’s rise is just one of many examples that patience is needed with someone like Engels because there is a lot of potential there.
Celtic fans won’t see him at his consistent best until next season, but so far, he is doing more than enough to impress and start every week.
| Key Passes | Total tackles | Inter | Clear | Blocked shots | Acc Long Balls | Touches | Rating |
| 1 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 41 | 6.43 |
In truth, Engels deserved a higher rating than 6.43 against Bayern, but that midfield three of the skipper, Reo Hatate and the new kid on the block is looking pretty good.
It’s now a case of adding more strength and bite to the bench because it will help Celtic to improve even further in Europe.
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