Mohamed Elyounoussi talks up his development at Celtic during Norwegian presser

Add as preferred source on Google

Mohamed Elyounoussi was keen to talk up what he learned at Celtic as he returned to the Norway camp for international duty.

Elyounoussi spent two years at Parkhead between 2019 and 2021. Despite the fact he was part of a dismal campaign last year, the winger was still able to leave the club a fan-favourite. Moi secured 24 goals and 14 assists in 67 outings for the Hoops [Transfermarkt].

Now, he’s back in England looking to finally make his mark in the EPL. Southampton originally signed him from Swiss outfit Basel in the summer of 2018. Over three years later, he’s finally making the impact he’d been hoping for.

And as he spoke to the assembled Norwegian media this afternoon, Nettavisen have quoted him as saying the following on his recent development:

“It took a little longer than both me and Southampton thought [to break into the first team], so we hope that things turn around now.

“Self-confidence has a lot to say in football, but I also think I have developed physically. Not necessarily when it comes to running capacity, but going into duels and using the body more [after Celtic spells].

“I came from the Swiss league, which was much more technical. I experienced a little more pressure in Scotland and played many matches as a striker – target striker even. I learned a lot there.”

Mohamed Elyounoussi left Celtic with a good reputation, but things could’ve been so much better

Elyounoussi did a job for Celtic. Even though he had his injury problems and whatnot, nobody can say the left-winger wasn’t a decent acquisition for the club. When you look at the issues from last season, Elyounoussi’s performances weren’t anywhere close to being at the top of the list.

However, at the same time, you couldn’t help but feel we could’ve gotten more out of Moi. He arrived at Celtic Park with an intriguing reputation as a creative dynamo who had done it in the UEFA Champions League. But at times it felt as though he played within himself.

Everyone’s performances decreased in standard last season. We all know that. There wasn’t one player we could point to and say he had a cracking season. But you still felt as though Elyounoussi had more to give at times despite his impressive numbers.

Or perhaps that’s just me seeing something that isn’t there as an individual supporter. He deserved to leave with the backing and thanks of the Celtic support. Moi still managed to provide for the cause and helped secure nine-in-a-row.

In truth, if we had the chance to have him back this season, it’s something many would’ve been all for. Granted, whether it was between him and Jota? That’s a different story.

But it’s great to see the Norwegian winger reflecting on his period at Celtic so positively. You can tell he has real appreciation for the influence we had on his career. All the best to him as he continues to try and thrive down south.

In other news, John Hartson follows Celtic fan calls as he urges Hoops to sign Jota permanently