Iconic English Premier League goalkeeper has held talks with both Glasgow clubs over his career
Celtic and Rangers have both held ‘conversations’ with goalkeeping veteran Asmir Begovic in the past - but he thinks a move to either now at this stage in his career is unlikely.
The former Bosnia and Herzegovina international - whose career has spanned over two decades - is currently without a club, but he hasn’t hung up his gloves just yet. Begovic has played in the English Premier League for Portsmouth, Stoke City, Chelsea, Bournemouth and Everton but he claims there have been times in his career he’s been tempted to move north of the border.
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Now aged 39, Begovic believes time may have run out for a potential Old Firm switch despite his huge ‘respect’ for both clubs. Speaking to Hajper, the Canadian-born stopper explained why a move didn’t come to fruition even though Celtic in particular showed interest.
Goalkeeper scored in the Premier League.placeholder image
Goalkeeper scored in the Premier League. | Getty Images
Begovic on potential Old Firm move
He said: “Celtic were definitely interested me. I've had some conversations in the past with both Celtic and Rangers, but unfortunately a move never materialised. There are many factors in making deals happen, but you can't ignore how big those two football clubs are in terms of tradition.
“I actually love the SPFL in general, it's a very competitive league and the intensity is always there. It’s something that we in England really relate to and respect. It never worked out, and while I think time is running out for that to happen, I have huge respect for both clubs, their tradition, and their history.”
For his various clubs and country, Begovic accrued over 450 career appearances and one goal. He is one of only six goalkeepers to have found the target in the Premier League as his long range punt for Stoke against Southampton in November 2013 famously caught the wind and bounced over ex Hoops stopper Artur Boruc into the net.
Begovic played against Celtic for Everton in the 2022 Sydney Super Cup.placeholder image
Begovic played against Celtic for Everton in the 2022 Sydney Super Cup. | AFP via Getty Images
Begovic names manager who’d be a great fit for Scottish football
During his second spell at Goodison Park, Begovic played under ‘no-nonsense’ ex-Premier League gaffer Sean Dyche. Currently without a club, the former Everton and Burnley boss would be a good fit for Celtic or Rangers one day, according to Begovic. He continued: “I have a lot of respect for Sean Dyche and always enjoyed working with him. His staff are brilliant, they are no-nonsense and very direct. You know exactly what to expect, put the work in and you’ll get your rewards.
“I really respect those people, and he would be a great manager for either of Celtic or Rangers. He would tidy up any mess and ensure the players are on the same page, fit, and working hard. The fan bases can really relate to that, so I hope it happens. He deserves that sort of opportunity after everything he has achieved. We'll see what happens, he might have to tone down some of the social media stuff, but I would love to see him up there.”