Former Celtic defender Maik Nawrocki has penned an emotional farewell message following his departure from the club.
The Polish centre-back completed his move to French side Lens last week, bringing an end to a frustrating two-year spell in Glasgow.
Nawrocki arrived from Legia Warsaw in the summer of 2023 but struggled to establish himself under Brendan Rodgers and now Martin O’Neill.
Despite injuries and a lack of depth in central defence at various stages of his Celtic career, the 25-year-old made just 18 appearances for the Hoops, scoring once.
Many supporters were left puzzled by his limited opportunities, with Nawrocki often impressing whenever he was called upon before finding himself back on the fringes of the squad.
A successful loan spell last season ultimately earned him a permanent move to Lens, who will compete in this season’s Champions League and now boast former Celtic striker Odsonne Édouard among their attacking options.
In a message to supporters, Nawrocki thanked everyone connected with the club while also hinting at his frustrations over how parts of his time at Celtic unfolded.
“Dear Celts,
“Unfortunately, my time at the club has come to an end.
“I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have been part of this huge club. To work every day in such a special environment like Celtic, to experience the atmosphere at Celtic Park week by week and to represent this club in one of the biggest derbies in the world is something I will always be thankful for.
“At the same time, there were moments and decisions that I would have preferred to be handled differently, both on and off the pitch. Nevertheless, I always gave everything I had and tried to help the team whenever I had the chance.
“A big thank you to all the fans, my teammates and the staff members. I always felt loved and respected by all of you and I will always be grateful for that. I wish everyone at the club all the best and every success in the future.”
While Rodgers clearly preferred other options in central defence, the Pole rarely looked out of place when selected and never appeared to let his professionalism slip despite long spells out of the side.
Now, he has the opportunity to restart his career in Ligue 1 with Lens, where regular football and Champions League competition await.
Back at Celtic, Nawrocki’s departure has further reduced the club’s centre-back options, making defensive reinforcements a priority before the transfer window closes, you’d assume.
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