Sebastian Tounekti marked his first competitive outing in the Hoops with a strong performance in Celtic’s 2–1 victory over Kilmarnock — and followed it up with a heartfelt message to supporters.
Posting on Instagram after the game, the Norwegian winger wrote: “Proud to play my first @celticfc game today and happy to take all 3 points back home ☘️.”
It capped off a memorable Sunday for the debutant, who was thrust straight into the starting XI by Brendan Rodgers at Rugby Park. With fans still digesting a turbulent fortnight off the pitch, Tounekti’s performance stood out as a genuine positive.
- Miguel Chaiwa Celtic Update
- Celtic Starlets Face Key Showdown
- Celtic Face Thursday SFA Hearing
- Celtic to Compete in Iconic Tournament’s Return
- Reo Hatate Celtic Exit Nears
The 23-year-old showed exactly why Celtic moved to bring him in during the summer. His pace and directness offered a different dimension on the flank, consistently driving at Kilmarnock defenders and unsettling the home backline.
Sky Sports awarded him one of the highest ratings on the pitch, and Rodgers himself praised the winger post-match, hailing him as “brilliant” and insisting “he can do everything.”
Celtic had looked laboured in attack at times this season, with supporters frustrated by slow, predictable build-up. Tounekti’s willingness to take risks and inject urgency gave the travelling support something to get excited about. His debut was not flawless, but his intent and hunger were impossible to miss.
For the player, sharing that message on social media was a nod to the supporters who travelled down in numbers to Ayrshire. Celtic fans staged a 12-minute protest against the board before entering the ground, but once inside they gave the new Bhoy a warm reception.
In the end, late drama decided the contest, with another debut bhoy Kelechi Iheanacho burying a 96th-minute penalty to secure all three points. But for Tounekti, Sunday was about more than just the result — it was the beginning of his Celtic journey. His post makes clear he’s relishing it already.
