Celtic finally confirmed the signing of Paulo Bernardo from Benfica on a five-year contract on Thursday evening.
The 22-year-old Portuguese midfielder, who spent the previous season on loan at Celtic, has penned a permanent future with the club, following two months of speculation.
During his loan spell, Bernardo made 33 appearances, scoring four goals, including a memorable one in a decisive 2-1 victory in the Glasgow derby. His impactful performances did not stop there; he also had a crucial role in the Scottish Cup final, contributing significantly to the winning goal scored by Adam Idah after Bernardo’s powerful shot led to a rebound finish.
Bernardo’s return to Celtic, now on a permanent basis, has been met with excitement both from the club and the player himself. Speaking with Celtic TV, Bernardo said, “It’s amazing for me and it’s a big step in my career.
“I really enjoyed last season when we won the championship and the cup, so it was great for me – my first two titles in my career, too.
“I love the club, I love the fans and I love the city, too, so it’s very, very nice to be here again.
“I love the atmosphere at Celtic Park and away in all the games. Celtic is a big, big club. The fans feed us in the game so we can score one more goal or win the game in the last minute.
“They show that they love the club and I think they really like me too, so I love them.
“I trained this pre-season with Benfica so I’m fit, I did my own work at home to be even fitter so I’m ready. I want to become champion again and I think we can do that again, and I’m very excited to be here.”
That’s one loan signing turned permanent, and Celtic’s first outfield signing of the summer, with fans hoping that Adam Idah will follow the midfielder’s footsteps in the coming days.
Took a while but 5year contract good and with Rodgers coaching team he will only get better