Former Celtic midfielder Matt O’Riley has voiced his discontent with how he’s been used at Brighton under manager Fabian Hürzeler, admitting he’s not happy playing in a role that doesn’t suit him.
The Danish international made 23 appearances across all competitions in the 2024/25 season but failed to truly make his mark. A combination of injuries and being deployed in a more advanced role by the German boss appears to have stalled his momentum.
Matt O'Riley
Soccer Football – Premier League – Brighton & Hove Albion v Manchester City – The American Express Community Stadium, Brighton, Britain – November 9, 2024 Brighton & Hove Albion’s Matt O’Riley celebrates scoring their second goal Action Images via Reuters/Paul Childs EDITORIAL USE ONLY. NO USE WITH UNAUTHORIZED AUDIO, VIDEO, DATA, FIXTURE LISTS, CLUB/LEAGUE LOGOS OR ‘LIVE’ SERVICES. ONLINE IN-MATCH USE LIMITED TO 120 IMAGES, NO VIDEO EMULATION. NO USE IN BETTING, GAMES OR SINGLE CLUB/LEAGUE/PLAYER PUBLICATIONS. PLEASE CONTACT YOUR ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVE FOR FURTHER DETAILS..
O’Riley, who was instrumental in Celtic’s midfield before his £25 million switch last summer, is currently on international duty with Denmark alongside Celtic-linked striker Mathias Kvistgaarden and Hoops goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel.
However, he didn’t hold back in how he spoke about his first season at Brighton.
He said: (RecordSport), “I am not completely happy, and I am just giving my opinion.
“It makes it difficult to show off when you play a position you are not completely happy with. I can play better for the team if I play the number eight position, but I can play well in other positions.
“You can say it in a way that is not aggressive. If you are honest with another person, you don’t lose anything. The coach can always say he doesn’t agree.”
O’Riley’s comments come amid growing interest from Everton, who are reportedly considering a move for the midfielder. The Premier League side could be set to test Brighton’s resolve this summer.
Matt O'Riley Brighton
Soccer Football – Carabao Cup – Second Round – Brighton & Hove Albion v Crawley Town – The American Express Community Stadium, Brighton, Britain – August 27, 2024 Brighton & Hove Albion’s Matt O’Riley during the warm up before the match Action Images via Reuters/John Sibley EDITORIAL USE ONLY. NO USE WITH UNAUTHORIZED AUDIO, VIDEO, DATA, FIXTURE LISTS, CLUB/LEAGUE LOGOS OR ‘LIVE’ SERVICES. ONLINE IN-MATCH USE LIMITED TO 120 IMAGES, NO VIDEO EMULATION. NO USE IN BETTING, GAMES OR SINGLE CLUB/LEAGUE/PLAYER PUBLICATIONS. PLEASE CONTACT YOUR ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVE FOR FURTHER DETAILS..
Should the Seagulls sanction a sale, Celtic are in line to benefit. The Hoops reportedly negotiated a 10% sell-on clause as part of the deal that took O’Riley to the south coast. If Brighton fetch the original £25 million fee or more, Celtic would pocket at least £2.5 million—cash that could bolster their own transfer plans at Lennoxtown.
While O’Riley’s struggles in England might come as a surprise to some, his desire to return to a role where he can influence the game more deeply could be key to any potential move materialising. His situation will be one to watch closely as Celtic prepare for a busy summer window.
Tees for Tims - Jota Celtic