Celtic may have the opportunity to sign Damian Bobadilla this summer following Sao Paulo’s decision to part ways with Hernan Crespo.
Sao Paulo confirmed Crespo’s exit in a statement on 9 March, despite a strong start to the season that has them second in the table after four games.
Bobadilla has been linked with Celtic as an option to revamp the midfield next summer, and the departure of his manager may open the door for the Hoops to make a move.
Is Damian Bobadilla an upgrade on Celtic’s current midfield options?
Who would he be most likely to replace? 🤔
Damian Bobadilla was a huge fan of Hernan Crespo
Nathan Joyes of the Copa Club told 67 Hail Hail that Bobadilla is ready for a move to Europe and now that Crespo has left, that could accelerate things.
The Paraguay international loved working under the former Argentina international after buying into his philosophy.
He told Portuguese media in September 2025: “Crespo arrived with a difficult game against Flamengo at the Maracana. He believed in us, in the group he had available, and we believed in his idea.
“We felt comfortable and even enjoyed playing. We are winning both at home and away, something that didn’t happen much last year.”
Why Celtic should make a move for Damian Bobadilla
New managers mean new ideas and whoever comes in may not rate Bobadilla.
Under the previous Sao Paulo manager, Zubeldia, the 24-year-old was a bit-part player. However, under Crespo, he played in 31 games.
The 2026 transfer window is still months away, but what is the number one position Celtic need to improve this summer?📝
Tell us why you picked that position
That could happen again but at Celtic, there is no doubt that he would become an instant starter.
Celtic’s one-dimensional midfield will be overhauled in the summer, and the Paraguayan would be a serious upgrade on what they have now.
Yes, he may cost a pretty penny, but the Hoops are going to have to dig into their cash reserves to give the incoming manager the best squad possible to compete on all fronts and Bobadilla would be one of the many statements of intent.
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