Celtic Treble Hero Eyed for Shock UK Return

Liel Abada
7th February 2024; Easter Road, Edinburgh, Scotland: Scottish Premiership Football, Hibernian versus Celtic; Liel Abada of Celtic

Former Celtic winger Liel Abada could be on his way back to the UK this summer, with interest growing from the English Championship.

Sky Sports report that Birmingham City and Norwich City are both looking at a move for the Charlotte FC attacker. They are not the only ones, with a number of clubs exploring a deal before next season.

Liel Abada Celtic
20th August 2023; Rugby Park, Kilmarnock, Scotland: Scottish Viaplay Cup Football, Kilmarnock versus Celtic; Liel Abada of Celtic on the ball

Abada left Celtic in 2024 and has been playing in MLS since. His current contract runs until the end of 2026, with an option to extend it by another year, which gives Charlotte control over any move.

During his time at Celtic, Abada produced strong numbers. He scored 29 goals and added 22 assists in just over 100 appearances, mainly from the right wing.

His game suited how Celtic played. He made runs in behind, attacked the back post, and focused on finishing moves rather than slowing them down.

Since moving to MLS, his return has been lower. He has scored 13 goals in 76 appearances, though his role has been slightly different in a more open league.

A move back to the UK could suit him. The Championship is quick and direct, which fits his style. Teams at that level need wide players who can run past defenders and chip in with goals.

That looks to be part of the thinking for Birmingham and Norwich. Both sides want more pace in wide areas and players who can make the difference in tight games.

Abada

From a Celtic point of view, it is a reminder of what Abada brought to the side. His movement and goal return from wide areas have not been easy to replace.

Whether anything happens will depend on how far clubs are willing to go. For now, it is early interest, but one that could develop as the window gets closer.