Dedryck Boyata was an integral player during Brendan Rodgers’ first spell at Celtic Park before departing for Hertha Berlin in the summer of 2019.
The former Belgium international was a stalwart in central defence, making 135 appearances for the Bhoys and registering 15 goals and nine assists.
Eight trophies came his way at Celtic after opting to move to Glasgow in 2015 despite advances from La Liga outfit Real Sociedad, who David Moyes managed at the time.
After leaving Scotland, Boyata went on to captain Hertha Berlin before joining Club Brugge in 2022. He has made 26 appearances at the Jupiler Pro League outfit across all competitions.
According to reports, despite the potential for a Champions League reunion, the 33-year-old is unlikely to be involved when Celtic and Club Brugge face off in late November.
Why Dedryck Boyata is unlikely to complete Celtic Park return
Per Gazet van Antwerpen, Boyata has been training with Club Brugge’s academy wing Club NXT and has no prospect of earning minutes under Nicky Hayen.
Having yet to make a competitive appearance this term, the ex-Belgium man was deemed surplus to requirements in the summer, but no clubs came forward with a suitable offer to entice him away from Jan Breydel Stadium.
With less than a year left on his deal, it appears that Boyata’s time in Bruges is only headed in one direction. He is unlikely to feature for them again despite being on a considerable salary.
Intriguingly, the outlet report he isn’t even present in the first-team changing room, so it is fair to assume he won’t be a central figure when Club Brugge travel to Glasgow in November.
Despite his frustrating Celtic exit, Boyata was a well-respected figure at the club who played his part in some of their most emphatic recent successes.
He would be welcomed back, and history will be kind to him. Nevertheless, the prospect of a reunion is unlikely due to his exile under Hayen.
