Luke McCowan’s transfer to Celtic is a fairy tale come true for the former Dundee captain. A devoted Celtic supporter from a young age, the 26-year-old midfielder might have thought his chances of pulling on the iconic Hoops were slipping away.
But this summer, McCowan got his dream move to the club he’s adored since childhood, a step that has not only changed his football career but his life as a whole.
For McCowan, the move to Celtic marks a significant turning point. He had steadily built a solid career at Dundee, where his leadership on the pitch eventually saw him rise to the role of captain.
But joining Celtic, a club he has supported his entire life, is an opportunity he could hardly have imagined. Now, as he steps into the world of one of Scotland’s biggest clubs, McCowan reflects on what it means to him and the advice he received from Celtic legend Stiliyan Petrov after a crucial match against Rangers.
McCowan made his debut as a second-half substitute in the Old Firm clash against Rangers.
Coming on in one of the fiercest rivalries in football, he showed composure and skill. Yet, the real highlight for the new Celtic man came after the final whistle, when he met one of his boyhood idols.
Speaking to the Daily Mail, McCowan shared his excitement about meeting Stiliyan Petrov:
“I used to go to the masters football and Pierre van Hooijdonk was the main man. I got his autograph. You never think this stuff is going to happen.”
McCowan’s awe at his own achievements extended beyond the football pitch, as he added, “But even silly things, I’m able to go and buy my own house and stuff like that now. That’s going to help my family, help my life.”
However, it was Petrov’s words of encouragement that truly resonated with the new signing.
“Stan Petrov came up to me after the Rangers game and was shaking my hand. I felt myself going like a 10-year-old wee boy. He was telling me, go and kick on. I’ve just got to use that as a confidence thing to push on and use.”
Celtic fans love nothing more than seeing one of their own don the famous green and white. For supporters, watching McCowan make his debut at Paradise was a moment of pride, knowing he represents the dreams of so many. The fact that he’s not only a fan but also has the potential to make a real impact adds another layer of excitement.
Yet, competition for places at Celtic is fierce. With a wealth of talent in the midfield, McCowan faces a tough challenge in securing a regular starting spot.
But his determination and passion for the club shine through in every word he speaks. And, with the encouragement of legends like Petrov, there is every reason to believe McCowan will rise to the occasion and prove himself as a valuable asset to the Celtic squad in the coming seasons.