As the Aaron Hickey to Celtic chat just refuses to go away, it’s interesting to note why he turned down a move to Parkhead in 2020.
Hickey and Celtic have been linked together ever since the end of the 2020/21 campaign. Firstly, the Scottish Sun reported back in May that the Hoops were interested in the £4m-rated Bologna man. The Daily Mail then reported at the end of June that Celtic were looking to splash out £3m on the youngster [print edition, back page, 24/06].
The left-back had a nightmare debut season in Italy after signing from Hearts. Despite making 12 appearances before the end of February, Hickey needed shoulder surgery after a nasty injury [Transfermarkt].
But Hickey could’ve been a Celt last summer had he not patched Parkhead for Italy. Speaking at the time, he gave his reasoning for why he turned down his boyhood heroes.
As quoted by the Scottish Sun, Hickey said: “We had a massive decision to make out of the clubs that were interested. But I think I have definitely made the right decision for me and my future.
“Celtic offered me a contract a few times. I’m a Celtic fan and, much as that was appealing, I just didn’t feel as if football-wise that was the right decision for me at this stage. I went to Bayern Munich as well, so it was a massive decision for me and a difficult one.
“But you can’t lose sight of the fact that Bologna are a massive club in Serie A. It’s a club that has a nice family feel to it, so hopefully I’ve made the right decision.”
Aaron Hickey could be about to change his mind on Celtic after 2020 snub
Hickey has since spoken about the latest transfer links to Celtic this summer. He was most recently asked about it on the Scotland National HQ show last month, he said: “I’m fully aware there has been interest. I can see it all. I’ve just got to keep my head down and keep full focus on Bologna now.”
It’s easy to see why Hickey may have changed his mind on a potential move to Celtic these days. Everything at Parkhead this summer screams fresh start. With a new manager on board who likes to play fast, attacking, high-pressing football – it’s an exciting project to be a part of.
Last summer, Greg Taylor had been in terrific form heading into the new campaign. With Celtic also in the market back then for an experienced left-back, Hickey may have felt his game-time was going to be restricted. That may not be the case this season.
Even despite his injury, the full-back’s reputation has grown just being in Serie A over the past 12 months. He was named in the highly-respected Tuttosport 2021 Golden Boy nominations. It’s clear he’s rated in Italy.
Now, however, Celtic have a massive opening at left-back. Taylor has just come off a disappointing 2020/21 campaign whilst Diego Laxalt has been sent back to AC Milan. The less said about the chances of Boli Bolingoli returning, the better.
So things have changed pretty dramatically for Hickey if he were to weigh up another offer from Celtic. Whether he comes to a different conclusion than last year? Only he will know.
In other news, Celtic can use their opening day disadvantage as extra motivation.
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