Celtic midfielder Arne Engels has shared a light-hearted exchange he had with Rangers manager Philippe Clement ahead of his side’s 3-0 win over their Old Firm rivals on Sunday.
Engels, who recently completed a deadline-day switch from Augsburg to Celtic, made his debut in the emphatic victory over Rangers. Before the match, however, he found time for a conversation with Clement, who was once his coach at Club Brugge.
The Belgian media have taken an interest in this pre-match chat, as the pair go back to their time together when Engels was a rising talent at the Belgian club.
Speaking ahead of Belgium’s Nations League clash with Israel, one journalist asked Engels: “Did he (Clement) say he would have preferred to have you sitting on his bench?”
The midfielder, known for his quick wit, responded: “I don’t know, but I think so… It’s not for me to say. I am now a Celtic player and I am immensely proud of that.”
Reflecting on his move to Celtic and the difference between playing in Scotland compared to Germany, Engels said:
“It’s different (to playing for Augsburg), playing at a top-table club and fighting for trophies. The new format of the Champions League was very nice to make that choice, to show myself at the highest level.”
Engels also spoke of his admiration for Celtic’s passionate supporters, especially after experiencing his first Old Firm match.
“The fans are great, from what I have experienced in the match against Rangers, it was incredible. Being there and seeing how much the fans get behind the team was really beautiful to experience.”
It’s clear that Engels is relishing his new challenge at Celtic, and the early signs suggest he will quickly become a fan favourite.