REO HATATE has claimed he joined Celtic because of Ange’s understanding of Japanese players.
The midfielder joined Celtic alongside Maeda and Ideguchi in the January transfer window, adding quality and depth to Ange’s side as they chased the title.
Hatate starred in the middle of the park at the start of his Celtic career, before fatigue started to set in and he couldn’t meet the standard of performance fans had expected.
He also had one of the best Glasgow Derby debuts, with his brace and assist at Celtic Park giving Celtic the belief that they could lift the title at the end of the season.
Hatate has opened up o an interview on Japanese TV, and Twitter user @TwoFlagsMusic has translated the interview for Celtic fans.
Opening up on why he chose Celtic, the Japanese midfielder explained;
“No specific reason but because it was Ange. He understood Japanese players. Celtic are a legendary club & I wanted to go abroad so it made perfect sense. I had no reason to say no.
“Also, he wanted me personally, not the scouts. “it’s different when scouts wants you. So when a manager wants you personally, it makes you want to challenge”
For a player, if it’s the manager that wants you it’s a massive pull. The player knows that the manager has plans for them, giving them a confidence boost.
