Michel‑Ange Balikwisha, the 25‑year‑old striker who has spent the current season on loan at Belgian side Gent, has publicly blamed Celtic for his omission from the Democratic Republic of Congo squad for the World Cup. In a statement to the media, Balikwisha said that Celtic’s decision to deny him a loan move to a Major League Soccer club last season had cost him the opportunity to represent his country at the tournament. The player expressed his hope that his current spell at Gent could become permanent, citing the club’s supportive environment and the chance to continue developing his game.
The striker’s comments come amid a broader conversation about player movement and international duty. Balikwisha’s frustration highlights the delicate balance clubs must strike between protecting a player’s development and allowing them to gain experience abroad. While Celtic’s policy on loan moves has been criticised by some, the club has maintained that it prioritises long‑term player welfare and contractual stability.
In other transfer news, Algerian winger Fares Ghedjemis, who attracted interest from both Celtic and Rangers during the summer, chose to stay at Italian Serie B side Frosinone. Ghedjemis cited the club’s ambition to rise to the top tier and the promise of a longer contract as decisive factors in his decision. Meanwhile, Norwegian midfielder Thelo Aasgaard confirmed that his move from Rangers to Anderlecht on loan was the right decision, stating that a change of environment was necessary for his career progression.
The article also touched on several other transfer and contract developments across Europe. Aston Villa’s interest in Napoli midfielder Scott McTominay was noted, with speculation that the Scottish international could be a key target if the player becomes available. In the Scottish Premiership, Dundee United manager Jim Goodwin revealed that he had turned down a permanent deal for Port Vale’s Ruari Paton, opting instead to pursue other targets. Paton has since found regular playing time at St Johnstone. Aberdeen winger Shayden Morris, who left the club for Luton Town, said he had been a fan favourite but felt a lack of respect during contract negotiations.
Additional stories included Finlay Neat’s loan to Swedish club Norrby and his aspirations to emulate former Aberdeen academy graduate Robbie Ure, as well as former Celtic captain Scott Brown’s decision to decline a managerial offer from Cheltenham Town. Former Rangers chief executive Charles Green also revealed plans to acquire Stafford Rangers and rebrand the club, a move that would involve transferring first‑team players to the Northern Premier League side while maintaining a reserve squad in Scotland.