Maik Nawrocki backed for Celtic exit despite solid performances | OneFootball

Celtic defender Maik Nawrocki has been backed to leave Parkhead this summer, with pundit Jim Duffy suggesting the Polish international needs a fresh start despite some promising performances in limited appearances.

Signed for £4.3 million from Legia Warsaw in the summer of 2023, Nawrocki arrived with high expectations. But a year on, the 24-year-old has struggled to establish himself under Brendan Rodgers, making just 18 appearances in all competitions, 12 of them starts. His total minutes on the pitch amount to 1,081 — a modest return for a player once considered a cornerstone of Celtic’s defensive future.

Celtic v Hearts, Scottish Premiership 29/03/2025. Maik Nawrocki of Celtic during the match at Celtic Park, on 29 March 2025. Photo Malcolm Mackenzie PSI

Celtic used four senior centre-backs during their double-winning campaign, with Cameron Carter-Vickers a clear first-choice when fit. Liam Scales enjoyed a breakthrough season, while Auston Trusty also rotated in. Nawrocki, however, found himself consistently on the fringes, even when he impressed in big matches, notably in two Old Firm derbies where he was unexpectedly thrust into the starting lineup and held his own.

Speaking on >Clyde 1 Superscoreboard, Duffy reflected on Nawrocki’s situation, indicating that a move may benefit both player and club. “When he has gone in, he has done pretty well,” said Duffy. “I think it looks as though he has potential.”

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Yet potential alone doesn’t seem enough to earn Nawrocki a regular spot in Rodgers’ plans. Despite solid performances when called upon, he has often been left out of the matchday squad altogether. As Celtic look to reinforce their back line ahead of next season, cashing in on Nawrocki could free up funds for a defender more in line with the manager’s vision.

With talk of a possible return to Poland gaining traction, Nawrocki’s future at Celtic appears uncertain. A transfer could offer him the consistent game time he needs at this stage of his career — and provide Celtic with the opportunity to reinvest in a more trusted option at the heart of defence.

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