Celtic manager Martin O’Neill has expressed caution regarding the potential impact of new striker Tomas Cvancara, who is set to join the club on loan from Borussia Monchengladbach. As Celtic prepares to face Premiership leaders Hearts this Sunday, O’Neill emphasized that the 25-year-old Czech international should not be seen as an immediate solution to the team’s ongoing challenges.
Cvancara, who has scored just eight goals in two seasons in Germany, was recently loaned to Antalyaspor but returned early due to financial difficulties at the Turkish club, where he managed just one goal in 11 appearances. O’Neill confirmed that the transfer is progressing well and that Cvancara is currently undergoing a medical examination. He stated, “I think it’s pretty close now. He’ll be in for the weekend game in that case.”
While O’Neill is optimistic about Cvancara’s potential contributions, he clarified the player’s style and capabilities. “He’s not a target man, believe it or not,” O’Neill remarked. “He’s quick, he’s agile, and he wants to prove himself. If you think he’s the immediate answer to any sort of problem we have, I’m not sure I’d throw that sort of responsibility on him.”
Significance of New Signings
O’Neill’s remarks reflect a broader concern for the club, which has been actively seeking replacements for key players such as Kyogo Furuhashi and Adam Idah, both of whom departed in 2025. The manager expressed relief at making a move in the transfer window: “We need some help and that was nice, I must admit. And we’ve got some time still left to try and get a few more players in, if it’s at all possible. I’m hoping that it will be.”
Reports from Germany indicate that Celtic is also interested in midfielder Xaver Schlager from RB Leipzig. When asked about the possibility of additional signings before the match against Hearts, O’Neill remained focused on the immediate challenge. “Obviously this game takes the immediate priority,” he explained. “We get back on Friday and we’re working away, but I couldn’t really tell you at this minute.”
The situation is further complicated by speculation surrounding departures from the club. O’Neill noted that players such as Arne Engels and Daizen Maeda have been linked with moves away, but he acknowledged the positive attention these players are receiving. “If some of our players are attracting interest, that’s well done to them,” he stated. “But I would like to think we could add to the squad.”
Upcoming Challenges in Europa League
Celtic currently sits 24th in their Europa League group with seven points, making their path to progress challenging. A recent 3-1 victory over Feyenoord in Rotterdam provided a glimmer of hope, although the team faces a tough match against Roma, where they suffered a 3-0 defeat under new manager Wilfried Nancy.
As O’Neill prepares his squad for the upcoming Europa League clash, he is keenly aware of the difficulties ahead. “While their Serie A form might not be fantastic in recent weeks, we ourselves are trying to recover from our own league form,” he said. Confirming the inclusion of Anthony Ralston in the squad, O’Neill emphasized the need for resilience. “When I came to the football club, it’s been a bit of a struggle, but our focus was to try and get back on the domestic front as much as anything else.”
With the team determined to make the most of their remaining fixtures, O’Neill’s leadership will be crucial as they aim to navigate the challenges of both domestic and European competitions. “We’re in the competition, so we might as well see if we can get through,” he concluded. “We’re well aware of the big fight on our hands against a side that wants to make the top eight. It’s away from home and a difficult task, but we intend to put our absolute heart and soul into it.”
