It has been a big week for new Celtic talent Arne Engels, who not only completed a record move from the Bundesliga to Scotland but made two debuts in six days.
The new Bhoys midfielder arrived at the club for £11m on deadline day before making his first appearance in green and white during the 3-0 derby win over Rangers.
On Friday night, he took a big step forward on the international scene, too, making his debut for Belgium.
Engels replaced upcoming Champions League opponent Youri Tielemans in the 73rd minute, earning his first senior cap after representing his country in every youth age group.
De Bruyne says Arne Engels made ‘very good’ appearance
With only nine touches during his cameo, it’s hard to read too much into his performance but he’s making a positive impression on teammates already.
Manchester City superstar Kevin de Bruyne was pleased with the debut of both Engels and fellow newcomer Julien Duranville of Borussia Dortmund.
The midfielder said [Voetbal Primeur]: “Julien wasn’t afraid to show his talents, and that’s already very positive what he showed tonight. And Arne also made a very good substitution. It’s good for the future.
Philippe Albert is positive about Engel’s introduction
Former Belgium and Newcastle star Philippe Albert was also pleased to see Domenico Tedesco introduce new talent, stating [RTBF]: “There are a few points of satisfaction: the young players who come on, captain Kevin De Bruyne who does the job. I must admit that the conditions weren’t great for performing. Playing this match ‘at home’ away, what’s more behind closed doors. You sometimes have to put yourself in the players’ shoes.
It was the ideal match to launch young players. Once the score was secured, Domenico Tedesco brought on Julien Duranville and Arne Engels . These are matches to gain experience. The real big test awaits us against France and Italy.
The very fact that Tedesco sees Engels as part of Belgium’s future is positive from a Celtic perspective. Belgium are an elite outfit and boast excellent midfield talent.
The new signing training alongside these experienced professionals and using them as inspiration can only be a benefit to the Bhoys.
If the Belgium boss sees Engels as someone who can eventually replace them in the eleven then it is exciting to think of what he can achieve in the Scottish Premiership.
