Liel Abada makes it clear how much he loves the Celtic experience

By Dave Flanigan

August 4, 2022

Celtic winger Liel Abada has spoken about his time so far at the club and previewed the season ahead, including highlighting his excitement at playing in the Champions League

Abada scored the first goal of the Postecoglou era on his debut against Midtjylland in Postecoglou’s first game in charge, finishing the season with the first two trophies of his professional career.

When asked about the celebrations that bookended the summer break, Abada told Celtic TV: “I enjoyed it so much, it was the most amazing experience, to see all the fans and to see all the families on the pitch, flag day too. Hopefully we’ll get another flag day next season.

“I have targets this season for my goals and assists, but I don’t want to tell the number, they’re for myself. Maybe after the season, ask me the question, and I’ll tell you if I get the target.”

The 20-year-old enjoyed a breakout season at Celtic last year, scoring 15 goals, including a crucial last minute winner at home to Dundee United, which he highlighted as his favourite for the club so far, in addition to his strike in February’s 3-0 derby defeat of Rangers.

Abada also named the two people who were most influential in his debut season, his manager, and former teammate Nir Bitton.

“The manager is so important for me because he gave me all the confidence that I needed last season,” He said.

“Niro was a big brother for me, I could speak with him about everything, he helped me a lot last season. We speak a lot – Facetime – I wish him and his family all the best, I really love him, and I miss him.”

Going forward, the winger spoke of his dream of playing in Europe’s elite competition this season.

He said: “The Champions League is a dream come true, when I started to play football I just thought about the Champions League, I saw it on the tv, its where I saw the best players and I think that this is a good opportunity for us.”

Looking ahead to Celtic’s next game in Dingwall, Abada said: “I think this is a difficult game, we need to play our football, and do our job, and hopefully we will get three points.”

Abada scored the opener against the highland side when Celtic visited the Global Energy Stadium in December, and will hope for similar if selected at the weekend.

The 21-year-old was heavily relied upon by Postecoglou in the first half of last season, playing as a makeshift striker during Celtic’s winter injury crisis.

Despite significant recruitment over the last couple of windows, he’ll likely be called upon frequently again this season, and he’ll look to build upon his stellar debut campaign.

In other news: Jordan Larsson set to find new home as Celtic opt out