Celtic released defender Jozo Simunovic at the end of May, surprisingly allowing him to leave the club on a free transfer.
The Bhoys raided Dinamo Zagreb to sign Simunovic in 2015, landing him as the replacement for Virgil van Dijk following his move to Southampton.
Simunovic has shown his quality during his time at Celtic. Injuries have really hurt him though, and the odd mistake – such as in the Europa League against Copenhagen in February – certainly hasn’t helped.
The 25-year-old still managed 129 appearances for Celtic, and now finds himself as a free agent. He will likely court plenty of interest, but Celtic’s decision surprised many.
Celtic don’t have great depth at centre back, and allowing Simunovic to walk away for absolutely nothing leaves Neil Lennon with signings to make.
Now, Simunovic has commented on the situation. He has told The Scottish Sun that becoming a free agent is ‘a bit weird’ because he spent five years with Celtic and wanted to stay for one more year to try and win a tenth title in a row.
Simunovic added to The Scottish Sun that the global pandemic made his exit a little less surprising than it otherwise would have been, but he is proud of his time at Parkhead.
“It’s a bit weird as I was at Celtic for five years and was a good part of the success,” said Simunovic. “My wish was to stay for one more year minimum, as we have a good chance to do something historic. To win ten in a row would be a great achievement and I’d remember it for the rest of my life. Was I surprised to leave? I need to look at the whole situation in football right now and everything isn’t great with the global pandemic. It was the club’s decision and I need to accept it. They are looking at everything as a business.”
“What can I do? Of course I can say I am angry and sad that I am not at Celtic for next season. But I cannot change that. It’s the club’s decision and I need to respect it. It won’t spoil the way I look back at my Celtic career. I am still very happy and proud. I have been a big, big part of Celtic and the success there for the last five years. I also think of the boys who left last summer and the summer before. We have all played a big part in Celtic’s run to nine in a row and that will never change. I cannot look back with bitterness because I had the chance to have five years at a great club. I loved every game I played for Celtic and I need to thank my team-mates, my coaches and especially the fans for their support,” he added.
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