Liel Abada has penned an emotional Celtic farewell after his £8million move to MLS side Charlotte FC was confirmed.
Abada, 22, joined Celtic in July 2021 and played a key role under Ange Postecoglou - winning five out of six domestic trophies available. He was merited with a fresh four-year-contract extension last summer, but things haven't turned out how he anticipated since then.
The Israeli winger sat out of Celtic's last five games with boss Brendan Rodgers stating Abada was not ready to play due to personal reasons linked to the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
And now the new Charlotte FC star has revealed how tough the past six months have been.
READ MORE: Liel Abada Celtic transfer exit for Charlotte FC confirmed
Taking to Instagram, he wrote: "After two-and-a-half incredible years, the time has come to bid farewell.
"Where do I even begin? Leaving Celtic wasn't in my plans, yet life's unpredictable turns remind us that we're not always in control. The past six months have been a personal challenge, yet the overwhelming support from the gaffer, coaches, and board has been my rock. Their unwavering faith during these times won't be forgotten but cherished forever.
"Reflecting on my journey here brings a smile to my face, the trophies lifted, goals celebrated electric atmospheres, and moments of pure bliss will forever be etched in my memory.
"To my teammates and staff, thank you for pushing me to excel, not just as a player, but as a person. You've all played a pivotal role in shaping who I am today.
"A special shoutout to my family and my girlfriend, whose steadfast support and love have been my guiding light.
"Arriving in a new country at 19 was daunting, but Niro and his family welcomed me with open arms, making Scotland feel like home from day one. Their kindness made all the difference, on and off the pitch.
"To the incredible Israeli community in Glasgow, you've given me so much love and warmth. You hold a special place in my heart.
"And last but not least, thank you to all the Celtic fans. Recent times were very difficult for myself and my family but I want to say thank you to all the Celtic fans that stood by me, supported and respected me as a Celtic player, and I hope I have given you a few moments to remember me by.
"It is now time to begin a new chapter on my journey in a new place and with new targets.
"Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for everything. Liel."
Why are you making commenting on The National only available to subscribers?
We know there are thousands of National readers who want to debate, argue and go back and forth in the comments section of our stories. We’ve got the most informed readers in Scotland, asking each other the big questions about the future of our country.
Unfortunately, though, these important debates are being spoiled by a vocal minority of trolls who aren’t really interested in the issues, try to derail the conversations, register under fake names, and post vile abuse.
So that’s why we’ve decided to make the ability to comment only available to our paying subscribers. That way, all the trolls who post abuse on our website will have to pay if they want to join the debate – and risk a permanent ban from the account that they subscribe with.
The conversation will go back to what it should be about – people who care passionately about the issues, but disagree constructively on what we should do about them. Let’s get that debate started!
Callum Baird, Editor of The National
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel