Former Celtic defender Simpson-Pusey thriving in Germany after difficult Parkhead spell

Former Celtic loanee Jahmai Simpson-Pusey has described his brief spell at Parkhead as a difficult period in his young career after establishing himself in Germany with FC Koln.

The Manchester City defender joined Celtic on a season-long loan under Brendan Rodgers in the summer of 2025, but made just one appearance before the agreement was cut short in January.

Simpson-Pusey subsequently moved to Koln on loan for the remainder of the campaign before making his switch to the Bundesliga club permanent during the summer.

The 20-year-old has since been joined in Germany by former Rangers loanee Mikey Moore and Reigan Heskey, the son of former England striker Emile Heskey.

Simpson-Pusey revealed he spoke with both players before their respective moves from Tottenham and Manchester City and is enjoying having some familiar company in the Koln dressing room.

Asked about their arrivals, he said via Daily Record: “That’s good. We now have a bit of English culture in the team.

“I spoke to them beforehand. But I didn’t force them to come here. Many see that (the Bundesliga) can be a sensible step. I didn’t know where I would be playing either. But I came here to prove myself.”

Simpson-Pusey’s career has taken a significant turn since struggling for opportunities at Celtic, and he admits remaining at Koln after his initial loan spell was an easy decision.

Reflecting on his time at Parkhead, he admitted: “That was a difficult period in my young career.

“(But) I’m really happy and very satisfied with how things have developed. The decision was a no-brainer.”

The centre-back’s performances in Germany have now led to suggestions that he could earn his first England Under-21 call-up, having last represented his country at Under-18 level three years ago.

Asked about the possibility, Simpson-Pusey said: “I’m not sure.

“The squads will be announced in the next few days. I have no idea.”