Sead Haksabanovic doubles down on ‘frustrating’ reasons behind Celtic departure

Sead Haksabanovic’s Celtic career is now history after he signed for Swedish champions Malmo on a four-year deal.

The 25-year-old was a regular under Ange Postecoglou before falling out of favour after Brendan Rodgers’ return, and he moved on loan to Stoke City after an Instagram post questioning his value at the club.

Five goals and four assists in 42 appearances for Celtic wasn’t an awful return from Haksabanovic by any means; nevertheless, he wasn’t with the squad for the bulk of last season, so his departure hardly came as a surprise.

Speaking earlier this week, the Montenegro international claimed that the hierarchy in Glasgow’s east end wanted to keep him around, signifying that Rodgers was the reason for his exit.

Now, he has shed further light on some frustrations connected to the manner in which he left to join Malmo.

Sead Haksanabovic on Celtic exit frustrations

He explained (Hallandsposten): “He explained to me straight out that I was not part of his plans, while the board believed in me and wanted me to stay. But it wasn’t just him, so I’ll keep the rest to myself. What has been most frustrating is that none of the coaches who have poked me have explained why.

“I’m the kind of person who asks once or twice why I can’t play if there’s something I can do better if there’s something I’m missing. But no more. Then, I can do no more than show it on the plan.

Photo by Masashi Hara/Getty Images

“That’s why I’m proud that I still go to training every day and give 100% with the goal of being in the top five. Because I know that I have qualities that can take me very far.”

What’s done is done; Haksabanovic is no longer a Celtic player, and his exit appears to be the best choice for both parties due to a culmination of reasons.

Hopefully, the freed up wage expenditure and £1.7 million fee received for his services can go towards reinforcements in the market.

It is nice to see Celtic trimming excess off the squad where necessary; nevertheless, it is now time to see some incomings at Parkhead.