Martin O’Neill has secured his first transfer since returning to Celtic, bringing in Ivory Coast winger Jocelin Ta Bi for £2 million from Israeli club Maccabi Netanya. The 20-year-old completed a loan spell at Hapoel Petah Tikva before finalizing the move to Glasgow. This signing marks the beginning of what is anticipated to be a substantial recruitment drive as the Scottish champions pursue their fifth consecutive title.
Ta Bi expressed his enthusiasm about joining the club, describing the opportunity as fulfilling a lifelong ambition. He emphasized the significance of playing at Celtic Park, highlighting the venue’s status among world-class football stadiums. The player acknowledged the importance of his previous experiences in shaping his career trajectory and professional development.
The young winger reflected on his time in Israel, expressing gratitude for the environment that facilitated his growth as a footballer. He credited the support and encouragement received during his loan period with helping him reach the required standard to compete at Celtic’s level. These formative experiences proved instrumental in preparing him for this next chapter.
Ta Bi’s arrival signals O’Neill’s strategic approach to strengthening the squad ahead of a demanding season. The club faces significant competition in their pursuit of consecutive titles, necessitating quality additions across multiple positions. The recruitment of the young Ivorian winger demonstrates the club’s commitment to bolstering their attacking options.
The transfer represents a significant investment in youth and potential, with Ta Bi positioned to compete for regular playing time in the coming campaign. His acquisition completes an initial phase of the club’s transfer business, with further signings expected as the season progresses and squad needs become clearer.
