The reason for Mikael Lustig’s exit from Celtic after eight trophy-laden seasons in Glasgow has been disclosed. Daily Record is reporting that there was a difference between Lustig and Celtic when it came to the length of any new contract signed.
The report claims that Lustig wanted a three-year contract, whilst Celtic only offered a one-year deal. The club and the player could not come to a resolution, and he has now left the Hoops.
Club position makes sense
It has to be said, offering Lustig a one-year deal makes sense in a lot of ways. He is not getting any younger. Despite being a club legend, his performances had been on a downward trajectory.
On the other hand, you can see why the player wanted a three-year deal. It would presumably have been the last contract of his career.
Could have ended career in Glasgow
Lustig could have ended his career in Glasgow, hopefully as part of the Celtic side that won 10 in a row. However, he will need to be a spectator from now on, as he has departed the club.
What Celtic will need to do now is move fast to bring a right-back into the club. That could be easier said than done. Replacing Lustig will not be easy. However, it is something that Neil Lennon and the board at Celtic have to do.
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