Celtic Fans Turn on Arne Engels After Disappointing Display Against St Johnstone
Celtic fans are known for their unwavering passion and high expectations, but following the team’s surprising 1-0 defeat to St Johnstone on April 6, 2025, that passion has turned to frustration—and one player is bearing the brunt of their discontent. Midfielder Arne Engels, a high-profile signing for the Hoops, has found himself at the center of a storm as supporters voice their dissatisfaction with his lackluster performance at McDiarmid Park, with many calling for him to be moved on from the club.
The match, which saw Celtic’s title charge stumble against a resolute St Johnstone side, was a rare off-day for Brendan Rodgers’ men. Despite dominating possession and creating chances, the champions couldn’t find a way past Saints goalkeeper Fisher, with Daniels Balodis’ early header proving the difference. For many fans, however, the loss wasn’t just a collective failure—it was a spotlight on Engels’ struggles, with the 21-year-old Belgian failing to make an impact in a game where his midfield creativity was desperately needed.
Engels, who joined Celtic from Augsburg in the summer of 2024 for a reported fee exceeding £11 million, arrived with significant hype. Touted as a dynamic, box-to-box midfielder with an eye for goal, he initially showed promise, contributing goals (often from the penalty spot) and assists in his early outings. However, his form has dipped in recent months, and against St Johnstone, he appeared ineffective—highlighted by a first-half shot that went straight at Fisher and a lack of influence in breaking down the home side’s stubborn defense.
Social media posts from Celtic supporters after the match painted a grim picture of Engels’ standing with the fanbase. Many criticized his lack of physicality and inability to dictate play, with some questioning whether he justifies his hefty price tag. “Engels was anonymous today—off the pace and offered nothing,” one fan wrote. Another was more direct: “Time to cut our losses with Engels. £11m down the drain—he’s not good enough for this level.” The sentiment reflects a growing frustration among the Celtic faithful, who expect players to rise to the occasion in crucial moments, especially with the Premiership title race entering its decisive phase.
The statistics from the game only fuel the fans’ ire. Engels completed just one key pass and lost possession multiple times in midfield, failing to provide the spark Celtic needed to turn the tide. His performance stood in stark contrast to teammates like Callum McGregor, who tirelessly tried to orchestrate a comeback, and Reo Hatate, who struck the post in a rare moment of danger. For a player brought in to add quality and depth to an already formidable squad, Engels’ display was a letdown—and the fans aren’t shy about letting him know.
This isn’t the first time Engels has faced scrutiny. Critics have pointed to his inconsistency throughout the season, with some suggesting his reliance on penalties has masked broader deficiencies in his game. Rival fans, particularly from Rangers, have seized on this narrative, with posts on X claiming that players like Nico Raskin have outshone Engels in recent encounters—adding salt to the wound for Celtic supporters.
Brendan Rodgers, however, has remained measured in his assessment of the team’s performance. While he acknowledged the disappointment of the result, he avoided singling out individuals in his post-match comments, instead focusing on the collective need to bounce back. “We weren’t at our best today, and we’ve got to take it on the chin,” Rodgers said. “It’s a long season, and we’ll regroup.” Whether that regrouping includes a rethink of Engels’ role remains to be seen.
For now, the pressure is mounting on the young midfielder. With Celtic still in contention for a domestic treble—facing St Johnstone again in the Scottish Cup semi-final later this month—Engels has a chance to redeem himself. But if he fails to turn his form around, the calls from fans to see him out the door will only grow louder. At a club where success is non-negotiable, Arne Engels is quickly learning that patience is a luxury rarely afforded by the Celtic faithful.
