FIFTEEN WORDS THAT CONDEMNED NAWROCKI
MAIK NAWROCKI found himself back on the bench during Celtic’s disappointing 1-0 loss to St Johnstone in Perth yesterday. The German-born former Poland Under-21 international center-back had previously played in matches against Rangers and Hearts, receiving praise from Brendan Rodgers in both instances.
However, Nawrocki, who was signed for £4.3 million from Legia Warsaw in July 2023, was sidelined in favor of Auston Trusty at McDiarmid Park. This decision left many fans perplexed, especially since Nawrocki had been the standout defender during the unexpected 3-2 defeat to Barry Ferguson’s team and followed that performance with an impeccable showing in the 3-0 victory over the Tynecastle side.
Prior to the loss in Perth, Rodgers addressed the decision, stating to Sky Sports: “I think over a period of time Auston has done well. He obviously wasn’t fit enough to play in the second game against Hearts. I think it’s a big credit to Maik because he hadn’t played in a long time leading into the Rangers game, so it shows you his professionalism that he came into that game and against Hearts, he didn’t put a foot wrong.”
Nonetheless, Nawrocki must acknowledge that his opportunities at the champions will likely remain limited, particularly after Rodgers stated fifteen words that undoubtedly cast doubts on the 24-year-old’s future: “But I prefer to have a left-sided player on that side of the pitch,” the Celtic manager emphasized. While Nawrocki is two-footed, his right foot is stronger.
He is under contract until June 2028, but it seems there is no long-term place for him at Parkhead unless Cameron Carter-Vickers—who has been a vital part of the defense since joining on loan from Spurs in the summer of 2021—is sold or becomes injured.
Ironically, the USA international, who signed permanently for £6 million after an impressive loan period, formed a successful partnership with Carl Starfelt that secured five trophies during Ange Postecoglou’s two years at the club. Starfelt, like Carter-Vickers, is naturally right-footed.
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