Young Israeli star signs for Celtic

Israeli international winger Liel Abada looks forward to playing in front of Celtic’s “amazing” fans after signing a five-year contract with the Glasgow club.

The 19-year-old – a rising star in the Israeli game – has transferred for an undisclosed fee from Maccabi Petah Tikva, for which he made his debut in 2019. 

He played for the national team in a friendly against Montenegro last month. 

Abada’s club performances had attracted interest from many European sides – he scored 20 goals in 76 appearances for Petah Tikva. 

“It feels amazing to sign for a club like Celtic,” he told the Celtic FC website.

“This is a huge club and… I know the fans are incredible. I have watched some Celtic games in Israel, so I know how amazing these fans are and how special this stadium is. I can’t wait to get out on the pitch to play and help my teammates bring more success to the club.

“I’m looking forward to meeting my teammates and the manager. I have heard great things about the facilities at Lennoxtown so I’m excited to get out on the training pitch and get down to work.”