Kasper Schmeichel has reaffirmed his commitment to Celtic, choosing the club’s title ambitions and European football over more financially attractive offers.
Having reunited with former Leicester City manager Brendan Rodgers, Schmeichel was drawn to Celtic by the thrill of competing in the Champions League and the opportunity to play in front of 60,000 passionate supporters at Celtic Park.
The 36-year-old, with over 100 caps for Denmark, signed a one-year deal with Celtic after a brief stint at Anderlecht, with the option for another year. Schmeichel made it clear that his decision to join Celtic was driven by his love for the game and the challenge of helping the club succeed, rather than financial incentives.
He told Ekstra Bladet: “Playing for the title, as I am now doing at Celtic, and at the same time being at the highest level in the Champions League, motivates me.
“When I look back on my career, the moments I have enjoyed the most have been the few matches I have had in the Champions League. Of course, the Premier League has a very special place in my heart.
“But for me, it was an easy choice to go to Celtic, where I have come to a club that plays in the Champions League, must win every game and have 60,000 fans at the home games. Those are exactly the challenges that really motivate me. When it comes to football, money has never been a motivation for me.”
His experience and leadership have already proved valuable, and with his eyes set on continuing to compete at the highest level, Schmeichel’s presence will be crucial as Celtic chase both domestic glory and a strong run in Europe.
He’s done a great job of filling the void that Joe Hart left.
Fans have already been pleased with the goalkeeper’s distribution. Even during the Dortmund thrashing, he pulled off some great saves to prevent the German side’s score from reaching double figures.
It will be interesting to see what happens with the goalkeeper’s contract next summer.