The midfielder joined Celtic two years ago alongside Reo Hatate and Daizen Maeda, but a devastating injury on his debut against Alloa Athletic in the Scottish Cup practically ended his Celtic career before it began. Matt O’Riley made his debut away against Hearts.
Ideguchi was billed as a holding midfielder having a prior tour in Europe at Leeds United, but the position rarely existed at Celtic, where they have 70% control in many domestic matches. James McCarthy and Oliver Abildgaard had similar endings.
Celtic appear to have received a 1 million euro fee for the midfielder, which is the same amount they paid Gamba Osaka two years ago. Exchange rate swings may result in a minor profit or loss.
Ideguchi made five substitute appearances in his ‘debut’ season and spent the 2023 J-League season on loan at Avispa Fukuoka where he was short listed for the Player of the Year Award.
Further departures are expected from Celtic but it has been a slow start, incoming and outgoing, start to the January window.
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