Celtic’s injury problems have deepened once again, this time with Sebastian Tounekti withdrawing from the Tunisia national squad due to medical reasons.
The winger, who joined the Hoops on deadline day for £5 million, has made a lively start to life in Glasgow, scoring twice in his first few months. However, reports from African outlet Mosaïque FM, via RecordSport, confirm he has pulled out of Tunisia’s latest international fixtures, with Celtic requesting he be given a 10-day rest period.
According to Al-Araby Al-Jadeed, via RecordSport, the reason behind his withdrawal is a suspected thigh injury. The report adds that Celtic have formally asked Tunisia to allow Tounekti time to recover and to provide a medical certificate confirming the issue.
Tounekti didn’t appear in any visible discomfort during Sunday’s win over Kilmarnock but did tire quickly in the second half, with his influence fading as the game went on, something that may now be linked to the reported injury concern.
The 23-year-old’s setback is another blow to Martin O’Neill’s interim side, with Kelechi Iheanacho, Callum Osmand, and Daizen Maeda already sidelined or facing uncertain futures.
Celtic’s attacking depth is now paper-thin, and with the busy December schedule approaching, including the League Cup final and Europa League fixtures, the club may be forced to lean even more on fringe players and academy options before reinforcements arrive in January.
