Reo Hatate has a tremendous future ahead of him. His move to Celtic from Kawasaki Frontale in January of 2022 has given the midfielder an excellent platform to showcase his talents. Now, his personal drive and ambition will be important factors in determining what his next career step might be.
Rumours have emerged of a possible summer move for Hatate to Al-Ittihad. An added attraction would be the chance to play with Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kante, both of whom have joined the club this summer.
There is a trend now of seeing big stars moving to the Saudi Pro League. Cristiano Ronaldo, Benzema, Kante, Kalidou Koulibaly and many others have joined in recent times. But that is a very different scenario to the one Hatate finds himself in, at 25 years of age.
A move away from Celtic is almost inevitable, whether this summer or in the future. The timing and direction is pretty critical to get right though. And it does not feel like a move to Al-Ittihad at this stage of his career would be the right move for Hatate.
Hatate’s agent sends clear message amid Celtic exit rumour
As reported by Football Scotland, Hatate’s agent told journalist Ahmed Ragab:
"“Reo is still in Europe. There is no chance of a move to the Saudi League.”"
While the SPFL may not fit the bill as a top five European league, playing for Celtic does offer a lot more. Hatate will get a chance next season to feature in the Champions League group stages. He will also get the opportunity to work with the club’s new manager, Brendan Rodgers.
Hatate’s own desire, drive and ambition to excel and be successful in Europe are exactly why a move to Al-Ittihad, at this stage of his career anyway, never seemed likely. Celtic fans and Rodgers too would all surely be keen to see the Japanese midfielder develop further in Glasgow next season.