Celtic’s search for a left-back during the January transfer window sparked interest in a number of players, particularly when rumours emerged that the Hoops were reportedly eyeing a loan move for Manchester United’s Tyrell Malacia.
However, those hopes were dashed when Celtic eventually turned to Jeffrey Schlupp, signing him on transfer deadline day. The Ghanaian defender has since proven to be a valuable addition to the squad, but Malacia’s reputation has taken a significant hit following comments from PSV legend René van de Kerkhof.
1st March 2025; St Mirren Park, Paisley, Renfrewshire, Scotland, Scottish Premiership Football, St Mirren versus Celtic; Jeffrey Schlupp of Celtic celebrates after he shoots and scores past Zach Hemming of St Mirren to make it 1-0 in the 28th minute
Malacia’s Struggles and Van de Kerkhof’s Criticism
Speaking on the Omroep Brabant podcast, Van de Kerkhof didn’t mince his words when discussing Malacia’s performance at the weekend. The former PSV star was less than impressed by the Dutchman’s defensive abilities, especially after Malacia’s disappointing display in a recent match for PSV against Go Ahead Eagles. Van de Kerkhof criticised the defender for his role in the three goals conceded, calling the errors “big mistakes.”
In a scathing critique, Van de Kerkhof said, “A Malacia like that is really a bad buy. I don’t want to see him again! He should just go back to Manchester United, get rid of him.” Van de Kerkhof also took aim at PSV’s technical director, Earnest Stewart, suggesting that a more thorough assessment of Malacia should have been made before bringing him to the club.
Celtic’s Deadline Day Decision
Despite the link to Malacia, Celtic ultimately moved in a different direction on deadline day. With the loan of Alex Valle cut short, Brendan Rodgers was still on the lookout for a reliable left-back. That search ended in the signing of Jeffrey Schlupp from Crystal Palace, a move that took many by surprise, especially given Schlupp’s age, with the 32-year-old arriving as an experienced option.
Schlupp himself admitted he only found out about Celtic’s interest at 2pm on deadline day, just hours before the window closed. It wasn’t the ideal scenario, but Schlupp’s swift integration into the squad has already paid dividends.
Schlupp Makes an Immediate Impact
While some questioned the decision to bring in Schlupp, especially considering his seven-year age difference with Malacia, the Ghanaian international has made an instant impact. In a standout performance against Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena in the Champions League, Schlupp was solid defensively and added a spark to Celtic’s play. And on Saturday, Schlupp made the most of a start against St Mirren at the SMISA Stadium, scoring his first Celtic goal and providing an assist in a 5-2 win.
What’s even more impressive is that Schlupp’s arrival seems to have displaced Greg Taylor for the time being, suggesting that Rodgers made the right call in opting for the experienced defender rather than the highly criticised Malacia.
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The Right Decision for Celtic
In the end it seems that Celtic’s decision to sign Schlupp over Malacia was the right one. Schlupp’s experience, leadership, and ability to contribute at both ends of the pitch are qualities that have already endeared him to the Celtic faithful, and he will no doubt continue to play a key role as the Hoops push for success in Scottish Premiershio and Scottish Cup.
For Celtic supporters, the January transfer window might have been a rollercoaster, but with Schlupp’s arrival, it appears that the Hoops are now well-equipped for the rest of the season.