Reo Hatate makes statement of intent after Celtic transfer to Burnley

Reo Hatate has outlined his ambitions following his departure from Celtic. The Japanese midfielder has made it clear that his move to Burnley represents an opportunity to push his career forward while promising to address their current form. Hatate ended a hugely successful four-and-a-half-year spell with Celtic earlier this month after moving to the English Championship side for £6.5m with add-ons that could rise up to £9m.

The midfielder arrived from Kawasaki Frontale in January 2022 as Ange Postecoglou tapped into the J-League market and quickly became an integral part of the side, combining technical quality with an ability to produce decisive contributions in the final third.

His influence diminished during the latter stages of his Parkhead career before Burnley eventually provided the opportunity for a fresh start in England.

Hatate has now addressed his new supporters directly explaining the transfer weeks after signing for the Turf Moor outfit. Writing on Instagram, he said:

The Japan international also stressed that his responsibilities would remain unchanged regardless of the difficulties encountered by his new club, identifying work-rate, attacking contribution and improvement as his priorities.

His message provides some insight into the motivation behind leaving Glasgow.

Hatate has not offered a detailed explanation of the circumstances surrounding his Celtic departure, but his comments make clear that he regards Burnley as another opportunity to challenge himself and develop.

The 28-year-old leaves behind a considerable body of work in Scotland. His performances during Celtic’s successful domestic campaigns established him as one of the Premiership’s outstanding midfielders on his day, while his early goals against Rangers ensured his popularity among the Parkhead support.

Injuries occasionally interrupted that momentum and prevented Hatate from producing his best football consistently across every campaign. There were also questions about his attitude and whether he wanted to remain at Celtic during spells under Brendan and then Martin O’Neill.

There can nevertheless be little dispute over his contribution to Celtic’s success during his time in Glasgow. Hatate made 191 appearances for Celtic, scoring 33 goals and assisting on 31 occasions as he lifted ten trophies in the Hoops.

Good luck to Hatate.