CELTIC have cut their losses by terminating the contract of Nadir Ciftci, the striker signed by Ronny Delia from Dundee United in 2015.
Ciftci actually scored the first ever goal for a Celtic side managed by Deila’s successor Brendan Rodgers but once the Irishman was in charge at the club it soon became apparent that the player had no future at Celtic.
A loan spell was arranged with Derek Adams at Plymouth Argyle but that proved to be a bit of a disaster and the striker then moved to finish last season at Motherwell, where he contributed to their relatively successful season. He was obviously ineligible for the Scottish Cup Final against Celtic but he did score twice in their final league match of the campaign.
Celtic’s statement today was short and to the point:
“Celtic Football Club can confirm that Nadir Ciftci will be leaving the club on June 30, 2018. Currently on loan to Motherwell, everyone at Celtic wishes Nadir all the very best for the future.”
Ciftci, remarkably, was given a four year contract and the coveted number 7 jersey. He was certainly the worst signing in Ronny Deila’s time as manager but he did bring Armstrong, Ajer and others to the club so swings and roundabouts.
Every Celtic manager has had signings they’d rather forget, Ronny’s is certainly Nadir Ciftci.
Hopefully Motherwell will be able to offer his a deal within their wage structure now that Celtic have paid up his contract.