Winger Joins Charlotte FC from Celtic | OneFootball

Liel Abada Embarks on New Adventure with Charlotte

In an unexpected twist to his flourishing career, Liel Abada has officially swapped the iconic green and white hoops of Celtic for the vibrant colours of Charlotte FC in Major League Soccer. His move, valued at a cool £8m, marks the beginning of a fresh chapter till 2026 for the 22-year-old Israeli sensation. Despite his intentions, Abada acknowledges the unforeseen nature of his departure, “leaving Celtic wasn’t in my plans”.

An Unexpected Departure

The tale of Abada’s transfer comes amidst a backdrop of adversity. Brendan Rodgers, the managerial maestro, recently hinted at Abada’s unavailability for selection, attributing it to the distressing situation in Gaza. Abada himself touched upon life’s unpredictability, stating, “Life’s unpredictable turns remind us that we’re not always in control”. This departure follows a period of tension, exacerbated by Celtic fans’ political demonstrations, which inevitably influenced the winger’s decision-making process.

Triumphs and Trials at Celtic

Joining Celtic back in July 2021 from Maccabi Petah Tikva, Abada quickly became a pivotal figure under Ange Postecoglou’s leadership. His contribution was monumental, boasting 28 goals and 20 assists, playing a significant role in Celtic’s domination of Scottish football. However, an unfortunate thigh injury and subsequent recovery saw him sidelined, marking a challenging phase in his career. Yet, his reflection on the tenure at Celtic is filled with fondness and appreciation for the moments of glory and the support system that stood firmly behind him.

A New Chapter in Charlotte

As Abada sets his sights on conquering the American soccer scene, his arrival is a statement of intent by Charlotte FC. Teaming up with the likes of former Rangers midfielder Scott Arfield, he joins a squad eager to climb the ranks in the MLS. Zoran Krnet, the general manager of Charlotte, couldn’t hide his excitement, describing Abada as one of the most thrilling young talents in European football, an elite goalscorer and creator poised to achieve greatness in the league.

Abada’s journey is a compelling saga of resilience, talent, and new beginnings. As he steps onto the pitch in Charlotte, the MLS awaits the impact of a player who has already left an indelible mark in Scotland. His story serves as a testament to the unpredictable nature of football, where every challenge is an opportunity for greatness.