Celtic supporters got the chance to find out more about new signing Marco Tilio on Friday after he faced a room of journalists, as well as a group of fan media representatives.
Tilio is the A-League’s most expensive export and arrives from Melbourne City, feeling that the time is right for him to try and make an impact in European football. He’s one of two signings since Brendan Rodgers’ appointment but, as is natural, the wheels were in motion on Tilio’s signing before the manager took charge.
The winger can’t wait to work with a coach of Rodgers’ stature and in his media appearance shared that he was actually incredibly nervous to meet the former Liverpool man. Nonetheless, he has been given positive signs that the road ahead for Tilio and Celtic is one full of promise and potential.
Marco Tilio on meeting Brendan Rodgers
The 21-year-old said [Scottish Daily Mail, 08/07 print edition page 105]: “Obviously, he’s a great person first and foremost and then, on top of that, he has a great plan for the club and for myself. It’s something I couldn’t deny coming here.
“I met him for the first time on Friday morning and, when I spoke to him, I was probably more nervous than I ever have been before. But now, being here and working under him, I think I will slowly learn what I need to learn and, hopefully, he can push me to places I didn’t think I could get myself to.
“I never spoke to Ange but I know the club had a plan for me. With the new gaffer coming in, I spoke to him before I signed. He said I am an exciting attacker and he likes playing an attacking brand of football. That’s what I like to do as a player, excite the fans. I hope with this opportunity that I have I can do that.”
With Jota making an exit to Al-Ittihad, Tilio will have a brilliant early chance to try and push his way into Rodgers’ first-team plan. He’s one of a clutch of wingers who can take advantage of the Portuguese’s big-money move to the Saudi Pro League.
Celtic may well add more quality in the wingers later in the transfer window, so the Australian international will be eager to make an impression on the coaching staff from the start.
In his media appearance, it was apparent he’s a sensible individual who has strong self-confidence. We now await the first glimpse of his footballing ability in pre-season friendlies later this month.
In other news, Brendan Rodgers reacts as Daizen Maeda commits to Celtic and puts Japanese myth to bed.
Receive a digest of our best Celtic content each week direct to your mailbox
