Renowned Spanish football journalist Guillem Balague was in place to watch Celtic vs Real Madrid at Paradise last night and if his social media posts and media appearances over the last couple of days are anything to go by – he really enjoyed his time in Glasgow.
Balague has been enjoying finding out more about Ange Postecoglou’s history in recent days for example, educating himself on the links between the Australian and Ferenc Puskas.
Meanwhile, on Twitter today, he shared that he was left impressed by midfielder Matt O’Riley, having also met his parents in the Celtic Park stands last night.
He said: “Met Matt O’Riley’s parents last night. What lovely people! Humble and so happy to see the progress of their son. He did not look out of place at all against Madrid and will reach bigger highs for sure. Matt told me after the game there are lots to learn/improve on.”
O’Riley has obviously been a favourite of Celtic supporters for a number of months now, but it’s nice to see our players get some high-profile buzz following European exertions.
The Danish U21 international has been in fantastic form and was particularly good against Rangers at the weekend. His raking through ball to Jota for the Portuguese’s goal in the 4-0 rout was one of the highlights of the entire calendar year so far.
As Balague says, he seems destined to become a big-time player, and it’s fantastic to see him develop at Celtic as an important member of the first team. Still just 21, he plays with a maturity beyond his years.
O’Riley wasn’t the only midfield man that didn’t look out of place last night either, with Callum McGregor and Reo Hatate both excelling in their roles. It bodes well for the rest of the group stage campaign.
In other news, Ange Postecoglou’s perfect Celtic response to Real Madrid defeat.
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