Reo Hatate is finished at Celtic, he’s already heading for the exit doors

Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version from Football Insider or go back to LFC Live.

Credit: Imago Sat 16 May 2026 16:30, UK Reo Hatate may never play for Celtic ever again, and the blame will ultimately fall on the shoulders of Martin O’Neill.It has been a strange campaign for the Japanese international. Despite notching six goals and three assists, he has often found himself on the bench under the current manager.The likes of Callum McGregor, Arne Engels and Benjamin Nygren have all moved ahead of him in the pecking order at Celtic Park, and all signs point towards an exit this summer.Celtic’s transfer chiefs will have a huge task on their hands once the window swings open, and O’Neill appears to have all but confirmed Hatate’s move away in the coming months. 🔄 Celtic Transfer Update 🔄 Breaking news on latest signings, departures, and contract news from the Parkhead boardroom.

VISIT THE CELTIC TRANSFER HUBReo Hatate nowhere to be seen in Celtic vs HeartsHatate came off the bench in both of the Hoops’ last two matches, but he was an obvious absentee when Celtic’s lineup was confirmed ahead of their end-of-season clash with the Jambos. MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES It was winner takes all, at least for O’Neill’s side, with Hearts needing just a point away from home to lift their first Scottish Premiership title since the 1959-60 season.Sadly for Derek McInnes’ side, late goals from Daizen Maeda and Callum Osmand remained at Celtic Park for the fifth consecutive season, with Celtic fans pouring onto the pitch at full-time after a 3-1 win.Reo Hatate’s 2025-26 Scottish PremiershipStats [FotMob]Minutes played1734Goals2Assists2Chances created37Successful dribbles47.4%Tackles per 901.04Recoveries per 903.63So, it would appear that O’Neill was right to leave him out, with the Hoops getting over the line to beat the Jambos, but it was still a disappointing decision ahead of the summer.Japan international has strong links with Celtic Park exitRumours have been swirling over the last few weeks, and his absence from the squad altogether has only fueled the fire ahead of the summer transfer window opening.Football Insider understands that Engles could follow Hatate out the exit doors, with supporters expecting a squad overhaul after a frustrating campaign at Celtic Park.Next season’s squad is likely to look much-changed, as well as a new figure in the dugout, though it remains to be seen who will replace O’Neill ahead of 2026-27.The manager has another league title under his belt now, and that might be the best way for him to bow out of Celtic Park, rather than lead the club into the next campaign.