Juranovic, Hart and more react as Celtic full-back Bolingoli touches down in Russia

By Euan Davidson

February 24, 2022

Boli Bolingoli has shared a message to his Instagram followers after leaving Celtic for Russia Premier Division side FC Ufa, on loan.

Bolingoli never looked like he was fancied by Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou, who only used him in two matches. Admittedly, he played well against both Livingston and Motherwell, but Liam Scales and Greg Taylor remain the primary options on the left of the Celtic defence.

As such, FC Ufa came calling just before the end of the Russian transfer window. And he’s sent a message on Instagram that’s been welcomed by Joe Hart, Josip Juranovic, Mikey Johnston and more Celtic stars.

Bolingoli said: “Never sat on two knees. Mission in sight.”

What that literally means isn’t entirely obvious. Whatever the case, though, he sounds motivated to make an impact for FC Ufa, who currently sit second-from-last in the Russian top-flight [RPL].

Goalkeeper Joe Hart said “Good luck pal” to Bolingoli, while the similarly social media savvy Juranovic added “All the best bro!”. Osaze Urhoghide, himself on loan out at KV Oostende, shared a simple “let’s go”, while Mikey Johnston made a similar statement in response to Bolingoli’s post.

Last year, of course, Bolingoli was at Instanbul Basaksehir. He made 18 appearances for the side, including in the Champions League. This was after an ill-advised and unsanctioned trip to Spain at the start of the 20-21 season.

Boli Bolingoli given another chance to impress outside of Celtic, with Russia calling

It’s great to see Bolingoli getting support from his teammates. Regardless of off-field issues, the former Belgian youth international has always seemed keen to make an impact at Celtic.

He’s never had any issues making friends with teammates. Last season, he met up with Odsonne Edouard and Jeremie Frimpong for a catch-up [Instagram], three players who made strides in the 19-20 season.

The current crop of Celtic stars seem to like him, too. Granted, Joe Hart and Josip Juranovic seem to like everyone, and both are vocal players on the pitch and, seemingly, off it. But therein lies the mystery around Bolingoli. Is it something in training that’s prevented him getting more game-time?

Stylistically, he seemed as if he might actually be a decent fit for Ange Postecoglou’s style. But when Adam Montgomery was getting games, and Liam Scales emerged as a second-choice, the writing seemed on the wall once again for the former Rapid Vienna man.

So, it’s pastures new for Bolingoli. But at least he has the endorsement of a number of Celtic players as he makes a loan move to Russia.

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