Former Celtic star Georgios Samaras has expressed his certainty that Matt O’Riley will depart from Celtic Park this summer following another standout season.
In an interview with Ladbrokes Fanzone, Samaras highlighted that O’Riley’s continual development since his transfer from MK Dons positions him for a move to a higher-tier league.
The former Greek international, who arrived at Celtic from Manchester City, claims he could play at any team at any level, although he did admit that a move to England’s top four may be too big a jump at the moment.
“I’m 100% sure Matt O’Riley will leave the club at the end of this season. He’s out.
“He had a great season last year, he’s had another fantastic season this time around, and we’re clearly seeing him develop year on year.
“He came from League One in England and he’s giving his team something every single week… he’s so talented. His goals, his assists, his general performances… I think he’s at the peak of his Celtic career.
“Now, the best thing for him, and the club, is to go and find the best offer for him in the summer.”
“He can play in any team, that’s for sure. OK, it would be more difficult to play for any of the top four in England, and he’s probably not ready yet to join those clubs – but I have no doubt in his ability to go and perform at a similar level in the Premier League. It’ll be a case of who can afford him…
“Celtic have a very expensive asset in Matt O’Riley, so I’ve no doubt they’ll get a huge transfer fee for him. “And I’m not just talking about the Premier League, by the way; this is a guy who I could see in Spain, Portugal, Germany, Italy… any of their big clubs, I can see him going and standing out anywhere in Europe.”
O’Riley has been a key player for Celtic, he has set up plenty goals for the side and this season, he has added goals to his game, making himself Celtic’s top scorer this season.
With a semi-final against Aberdeen at the weekend, fans will be hoping that O’Riley can show a performance that earns a move to the likes of Atletico Madrid, who made a move for the midfielder in January.
