Journalist Robert Grieve has raised fresh concern about Reo Hatate’s Celtic future, suggesting there are signs that the midfielder’s situation may be moving in an uncomfortable direction.
Speaking after Celtic’s recent run of positive results under Martin O’Neill, Grieve pointed to moments that have stood out during matches rather than form alone. The focus is less on statistics and more on behaviour, reactions, and visible signals on the pitch.
Celtic’s season has already been shaped by uncertainty and change. Against that backdrop, attention naturally falls on senior players and how they respond to pressure. Hatate’s role and demeanour have become part of that wider conversation.
Grieve shared his view during a discussion where Celtic’s squad depth and mentality were under scrutiny. His comments were framed as an observation rather than a prediction. Still, the tone was one of clear concern.
He said: (the Set Piece), “They’ve still got top players… I still think there’s an issue – and I mentioned this to Martin O’Neill (on Tuesday) – I think there’s an issue with Reo Hatate.
“I really think there’s an issue with Reo Hatate. I think that’s one to watch. His body language, for me, is all wrong.
“Engels scored at the weekend, every player runs to Engels to celebrate, one player doesn’t: Reo Hatate. He got substituted late in the second half, comes off, says something to the bench; straight up the tunnel.
“I don’t think that would go down particularly well behind the scenes. I think he looks like a player who’s got his eye on a move. I genuinely think that’s one to watch.
“Reo Hatate is potentially the best player in the country if he’s on his game – but he’s not been on his game for a long time.
“And I genuinely think that’s one to watch. Whether there’s going to be interest there…
“I mentioned this to Martin O’Neill yesterday, he didn’t want to speak about specifics, but he said that the Japanese players have the World Cup around the corner, and they may be looking at how things could pan out.”
Hatate remains an important figure within the squad, even during a spell where consistency has dipped. His quality is not in question, but form and focus have become talking points. That combination often draws attention in January.
Celtic supporters are alert to changes in attitude as much as results. Small moments, such as reactions to goals or substitutions, are noticed quickly. In a tense title race, those details can feel amplified.
The midfielder’s contract situation and long-term ambitions add context. Hatate has been linked with moves away in the past. That history makes any suggestion of restlessness feel more significant.
Martin O’Neill has previously spoken in general terms about players managing their careers. With international tournaments on the horizon, some players may think carefully about minutes and form. That background sits quietly behind the current discussion.
Celtic’s need for stability remains clear. The club is trying to build momentum during a demanding period. Questions around key players are not ideal, but they are part of elite football.
Hatate’s performances still have the power to shift opinion quickly. A strong run of games can change the narrative just as fast as it formed. Celtic will hope focus returns to football rather than speculation.
The manager’s handling of the situation will be important. Trust, clarity, and communication matter when questions arise. How Hatate responds on the pitch may provide the clearest answer.
For now, Grieve’s comments serve as a warning rather than a conclusion. They highlight something to monitor rather than something already decided. That distinction matters.
Whether this proves to be a brief dip or something more remains to be seen. Much will depend on performances in the weeks ahead. Attention will stay fixed on how the midfielder reacts.
As the window moves on, Celtic fans will watch closely. Hatate’s talent has never been in doubt. The question now is where his focus truly lies.
