Martin O'Neill explains cautious Celtic debut for Haissem Hassan

Celtic manager Martin O'Neill has detailed his careful approach to managing the minutes of new signing Haissem Hassan after the Egyptian made his debut against Dundee United on Saturday.

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A measured introduction

Hassan who joined the Scottish giants this summer from Spanish side Real Oviedo in a deal worth approximately €7 million, made his highly anticipated first appearance during Celtic's commanding 4-0 victory in the Scottish League Cup.

The Egyptian winger, who committed to a four year contract with an option for a fifth season, was introduced from the substitutes' bench in the 70th minute.

Speaking to Celtic Way, O'Neill explained that the late introduction was a calculated fitness decision rather than a tactical one.

"You can't plan these things but the idea was for Haitham to play the last 20 minutes because he hasn't trained much since the World Cup" O'Neill said.

The Celtic boss highlighted the contrast between Hassan's preparation and that of other squad members.

"In contrast, Mika Baur played in pre season and trained, so he is more ready. Of course, there is always a concern that any player playing straight away might pick up a muscle injury or something similar and that's what we had to be careful of. But overall, yes, at least they managed to get on the pitch and participate"

Breakout World Cup star

Hassan arrives in Glasgow carrying significant momentum after an impressive showing with the Egypt national team at the FIFA World Cup 2026 across Canada, Mexico and the United States.

His dynamic performances on the global stage prompted Celtic to secure his signature viewing him as a crucial attacking reinforcement for the new campaign.

Khaled Hegazy |

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Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

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