Mikael Lustig’s decision on staying at Celtic doesn’t look as certain as it maybe has in the past.
It was only a couple of years ago that the Swedish veteran confirmed he wanted to stay at Parkhead for the rest of his career (Daily Record). Celtic manager Neil Lennon has also confirmed that he wants him to stay too (Scottish Sun).
Lustig has been fairly tight-lipped on his contract situation since the end of the season. It was revealed earlier this week by the Scottish Sun that he was set to make a decision on his future in the coming days. The right-back’s deal with the club is up, but a new offer looks there for him if he wants it.
But speaking in the Scottish Sun once again, Lustig has hinted that he could be set on leaving Parkhead this summer. He did, however, keep the door open to extending his stay.
“I know about Malmo’s interest but I would also consider going further afield. Today it is not only Europe where you can play, I have national teammates who have moved to the United States, the Middle East and Australia.
“I am proud of how I have handled the situation and those closest to me, the players and the leaders at Celtic know what has happened. It could have been handled differently, in terms of what has been said and what happened.
“You should never say never. I love Celtic and never thought I would feel such a connection to a club. I would never close that door. For me, that club is the fans and the job the players do for them. I have nothing but good things to say about Celtic.”
Still seems to be considering his options
It’s clear that Lustig still hasn’t really made his mind up. But he doesn’t sound as certain about staying at Parkhead as he once did in the past. He also posted an emotional Instagram video up on his feed just hours ago that seems to hint at a departure.
Whether there’s something in any new deal that states he won’t be first-choice anymore would be interesting to know. The veteran has been the first-choice right-back for around seven years now. He likely wouldn’t want to swap consistent game-time for a bit-part role.
Lennon clearly wants him to remain at Parkhead. It was the Northern Irishman’s return to the club in February that helped Lustig overcome Jeremy Toljan in the battle for the right-back berth last season.
But Lustig doesn’t seem as committal as many would’ve thought. He’s keeping the door ajar for a Celtic stay, but he’s left it wide open for a dramatic twist that could see him leave.
If that’s the route Lustig takes, Celtic have a big job to do this summer. With Cristian Gamboa and Toljan having already left, Lustig following them would leave us with just one right-back in Anthony Ralston.
He still comes across as very open-minded about his next destination. So if a decision is going to be made this week, he’ll need to narrow his options down swiftly. One thing’s for sure, however, a Celtic exit looks a bit more likely now than it did 24 hours ago.
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