It is hard not to feel that Carl Starfelt did not get the proper recognition that he deserved for his contributions to Celtic over the past two seasons. He was a nailed-on starter throughout Ange Postecoglou’s run at Parkhead. The only others who can say that are Kyogo, Jota, Cameron Carter-Vickers, Joe Hart and Callum McGregor.
Starfelt was a stalwart at the back for Celtic and formed an incredible duo with Carter-Vickers. Incredibly, the club did not lose a single Premiership game when the two started together.
That partnership at the back has come to an end though, as Starfelt completed a Parkhead exit in order to join Celta Vigo. The move came a bit out of the blue, even though he was being linked with a move away from the club for a while.
There had been a long silence from Starfelt on social media, after completing his move to Celta Vigo. But now, he has come out to send an emotional message to the Celtic supporters. He wrote on Instagram:
"I want to thank everyone in and around Celtic for these two season, and an extra thanks to all the fans, your passion is what makes this club so special.I leave alot richer in friendships, trophys, experiences and uncountable memories i will never forget.I am always going to be greatful for my time here.Celtic FC, what a club."
Starfelt sends emotional message to Celtic fans
Starfelt certainly played his part in the five trophies that Celtic won during the time of Postecoglou as manager. He was an ever-present at the back and for the most part, a very reliable centre-back.
Celtic have brought in two new centre-backs this summer in the form of Maik Nawrocki and Gustaf Lagerbielke. Stephen Welsh seems to have been handed a second chance at Parkhead as well, following the arrival of Brendan Rodgers.
Hopefully, one of them will be able to step up to the plate and take Starfelt’s place in the starting XI. Carter-Vickers recently picked up an injury in the game against Aberdeen and it remains to be seen when he will be back available for selection. He is expected to remain a starter.