Legia manager comments on Juranovic to Celtic after European draw; not expecting twists or turns

By Euan Davidson

August 19, 2021

Legia Warsaw manager Czesław Michniewicz is expecting no late drama in the transfer of Josip Juranovic to Celtic.

Speaking after Legia’s 2-2 draw with Slavia Prague in the Europa League Qualifiers, Michniewicz wasn’t willing to divulge on figures. However, what he did say spoke volumes.

In quotes from Opta journalist Sacha Pisani, the Legia boss said [Sacha Pisani]:

Encouraging stuff indeed for the Bhoys. Despite the upturn in Anthony Ralston’s form, a move for a Croatian international, at just a reported £2.5m, is exciting.

Juranovic scored on what could have been his final Legia game. The right-back marauded through Slavia Prague’s half, before hitting a powerful shot past the Czech side’s goalkeeper.

Unfortunately for Legia, they couldn’t hold on. Lukas Masopust equalised shortly after, making it 2-2 before the game event went to half-time. The scoreline stayed that way, setting up an exciting second leg in Warsaw.

Juranovic has already been congratulated by his teammates, including Artur Boruc, ahead of a move to Paradise.

On Tuesday, according to the Scottish Sun, Celtic and Legia agreed on a £2.5m fee for the 10-cap Croat.

Celtic can be thankful Legia man Juranovic wasn’t injured in Warsaw swansong

It was certainly a risky move to play Juranovic. Had he been injured, there’d have been a significant outcry. Thankfully, just as Kyogo Furuhashi managed for Vissel Kobe, Juranovic got on the scoresheet and finished unscathed.

In, we hope, his last game for Legia Warsaw.

The Croatian international already has fans excited with his movement and passing. Knowing he can score belters on the big stage only adds to his allure.

Despite the upturn in form enjoyed by Anthony Ralston, squad depth is a must. Ange Postecoglou has said as much, following the victory over AZ Alkmaar.

His Legia counterpart, Michniewicz, will have to find some kind of replacement for the Euro 2020 star. That won’t be easy. With noise around Juranovic suggesting he’s coming to Glasgow imminently for his medical [Daily Record], it’s bad news for the Polish side.

Read more: Why the best Celtic business this summer may already be in-house