Nir Bitton discusses what he wants to do next after Celtic departure

By David Walton

May 16, 2022

Nir Bitton has stated that he wants to continue fighting for league titles and medals wherever he ends up moving to next.

The Israeli is set to depart Celtic after 9 years at the club and played his last game at Parkhead against Motherwell on Saturday afternoon.

As of yet, there have been no plans announced as to where he’ll be playing his football next. The same goes for Tom Rogic who also exits the club after a trophy-laden 9 years.

Bitton has been speaking to Israeli media in recent days and has explained that he wants to continue playing football overseas. However, he also wants to be playing football at a top club that will give him the opportunity to continue winning titles.

As quoted by Israeli outlet Mako, Bitton said: “I do not feel full, I think my hunger only grows with time. I want to play in a club that takes championships and fights for titles of course, I have a lot more to contribute. The desire right now is to continue my European career overseas but I do not rule anything out, we will take the summer and make a decision together.

“I was always taught to listen to offers and not say no. I’m now a free agent and I do not know how it feels, we will see what the plans are with the wife and children and we will make the best decision for all of us.”

Nir Bitton Celtic departure a sad event but next steps will be intriguing

Bitton’s natural end at Celtic always looked like coming at the end of the season. With a lack of game-time and a contract expiring this summer, it just felt right for all parties to move on.

Not to mention the importance of leaving the club on a high. Nir managed to add yet another 2 trophies to his illustrious Celtic career this season. That’s likely an important reason as to why he’s chosen to bow out this summer too.

However, where he ends up next will certainly be interesting. Many would’ve just assumed that Bitton was planning to return home and see out the rest of his playing days in Israel. That doesn’t look like being the case however.

Instead, he still wants to be competing for titles overseas. It would also be fascinating to see how Bitton would operate in one of Europe’s top leagues should he get the opportunity.

You have to imagine there will be a host of interest in the veteran midfielder’s services this summer. With the international and European exposure he’s had in the past, he won’t be short of opportunities.

Celtic fans will watch both his and Tom Rogic’s summer decisions with interest. All the best to both whatever decision they make.

In other news, Brendan Rodgers explains his original Celtic exit plan