Celtic winger Sebastian Tounekti is preparing to compete for a regular starting position ahead of the new season, aiming to build on an inconsistent debut campaign at Parkhead. The Tunisian, signed from Hammarby IF for around £5 million, scored five goals and provided three assists last season, but struggled to secure a consistent place in the team. Tounekti expressed confidence in his readiness to contribute more significantly this term, emphasizing his determination to find form and make an impact through goals and assists.
“The club’s size and expectations are immense, and last season gave me insight into what it takes,” Tounekti said. “I’m feeling in great form and training well. I’m hopeful to help the team as soon as possible.” Having earned 17 caps for Tunisia, Tounekti also reflected on his recent World Cup experience, which was marred by the unexpected dismissal of the national team manager Sabri Lamouchi shortly after the tournament began. “The results weren’t ideal, and the managerial change was strange for everyone. We tried to make the most of it, but we couldn’t get the desired outcomes in the remaining matches,” he noted.
Meanwhile, Paulo Bernardo has joined Polish club Gornik Zabrze on a season-long loan from Celtic, with the option for the Polish side to make the move permanent next summer. Celtic assistant manager Maloney explained the decision, highlighting the midfielder’s professionalism and the need for regular playing time to progress his career. “Paulo and Martin spoke and felt it was best for him to get games elsewhere if he wasn’t going to be a regular here,” Maloney said. “He trains at 100 percent every day, even when not selected. We’ll reassess in 12 months.”
Celtic’s immediate focus remains on domestic challenges ahead of a crucial Champions League playoff against Austria’s LASK, which carries a potential £40 million prize in prize money. However, Maloney stressed the importance of concentrating on upcoming matches against Kilmarnock and Dundee United, both of which caused Celtic difficulties last season. “Out of respect for those teams, we aren’t looking at LASK just yet,” he said.
The Hoops face a busy schedule as they aim to secure a positive start to the season following concerns over manager Neil Lennon’s recent health scare. Tounekti, optimistic about Lennon’s recovery, said the squad is eager to earn three points against Kilmarnock at Rugby Park to lift spirits and set a constructive tone for the weeks ahead. “Shaun and Fozzy have done an amazing job, but we’re looking forward to having the gaffer back,” he added.
As the squad prepares for a challenging campaign on multiple fronts, Tounekti and his teammates are determined to meet the high expectations that come with representing a club of Celtic’s stature.