Brendan Rodgers has verified that Reo Hatate will be absent for the remainder of the 2024/25 season.
Pape Habib Gueye collided with the Celtic midfielder near the conclusion of the contest against Aberdeen on Wednesday evening.
The Hoops emerged victorious, winning 5-1; however, Rodgers was evidently irritated by Gueye’s inadequate tackle on Hatate.
Subsequently, concerns were expressed regarding the severity of the injury, given the Scottish Cup final in less than a week and the trophy day against St Mirren on Saturday.
Celtic will be without Reo Hatate for the remainder of the season due to an injury.
Regrettably, Rodgers has now informed the press that Hatate will be unable to participate in the final against the Dons at Hampden Park as a result of the injury he sustained.
Celtic is dealt a significant setback as a result of Hatate’s influence during this campaign. Rodgers anticipates that his midfielder will resume preseason training at full fitness.
At Lennoxtown on Friday, the Hoops manager disclosed, “He will be absent for the final two games, which is unfortunate for both him and us.”
“In terms of availability, he has had an exceptional season.” It is a pity that he will be unable to attend the final two games, as he has participated in 55 games.
“You are likely saying that he will be fine for the start of the preseason; however, it is a pity for both us and him that he will be unable to attend these two games.”
“I stated at the time that I believed it was an unnecessary challenge.” Everyone was aware that it was a free kick, and his sole purpose was to prevent the ball from escaping. It is not desirable for that to occur under those circumstances.
Brendan Rodgers will face a challenging decision regarding his replacement for the injured Hatate.
Barring any additional injuries, Captain Callum McGregor and £11 million record acquisition Arne Engels will be two of the three players who will commence in midfield.
In essence, the final position is a contest between Paulo Bernardo and Luke McCowan. They will be naturally disheartened by Hatate, but they will also be confident in their ability to begin.
McCowan has likely had a more successful season than Bernardo, as he has scored seven goals in 39 appearances, compared to the Portuguese star’s three in 42.
Bernardo sustained a severe injury at the commencement of 2025; however, he has actually played 275 minutes more than McCowan throughout the season.
McCowan scored against Aberdeen on Wednesday; however, it is reasonable to assume that both players will have the opportunity to establish their credentials for the final when the Bhoys face St Mirren on Saturday.
Leave a Reply