Chris Sutton provides an explanation for the lack of progress made by Reo Hatate at Celtic.

Chris Sutton provides an explanation for the lack of progress made by Reo Hatate at Celtic. Reo Hatate is one of the few athletes that is more entertaining to observe on their day. Brendan Rodgers’ Celtic maverick is a critical fixture and the individual who occupies the center of the field alongside captain Callum McGregor.

Arne Engels is currently attempting to establish himself as the third and most promising midfielder. Hatate’s introduction to Scotland is largely attributable to Ange Postecoglou, who is highly regarded by the Celtic Park faithful. It is a prime example of the club’s exceptional recruitment in that the Japan star arrived as an obscure figure from Kawasaki Frontale in 2022,

but he quickly transformed into one of the best in the country. Hatate is consistently a prominent figure on the teamsheet, regardless of whether it was under Postecoglou or Rodgers. However, Chris Sutton provided some intriguing insights regarding the player. According to Chris Sutton, Celtic has not made any progress with Reo Hatate.

Hatate’s performance in the Champions League this season, particularly against RB Leipzig, demonstrated that he is perhaps the most intriguing member of the squad when he is at his best. However, Sutton made an intriguing assertion that the 27-year-old has not made any progress during his tenure at the club, although not in the manner that one might anticipate.

The renowned striker expressed his belief that Hatate has remained relatively consistent for the champions, rather than enhancing his performance, in an interview with Sky Sports Football (26/04/25).Sutton expressed his opinion that Hatate should receive

the same level of attention as the primary players: “I believe he is that significant.” “I believe that this season is his most successful season in terms of goals scored.” “Actually, I believed that he was an exceptional player upon his arrival at the club.” I am uncertain as to whether he has actually made significant progress or improved.

I believe that he has been a consistent performer. “He was hindered by an injury during the previous season.” I have always believed that he is one of those performers; when he is on the team, I am more confident in Celtic’s ability to create opportunities. This is Hatate’s most successful campaign at Celtic thus far, as he has scored nine Premiership goals.

He has the potential to surpass double figures before the season concludes. He achieved his previous greatest score of six during the 2022/23 season, during which he also provided his highest number of assists with eight. Occasionally, the statistics fail to accurately represent Hatate’s contributions, as evidenced by the ratings of his performances on WhoScored.

2024/2025 Season Tournament Apps Mins Goals Assists Rating UCL 9(1) 787 1 2 6.95 2024/2025 SP 25(9) 2207 9 4 6.96 2023/2024 SP 12(4) 988 3 4 6.87 2023/2024 UCL 3 137 – – 6.24 2022/2023 SP 29(3) 2239 6 8 7.13 2022/2023 UCL 6 454 – – 6.21 2021/2022 SP 12(1) 847 4 2 7.08