Celtic has undergone significant changes this summer, with seven new arrivals and eleven departures—either permanent transfers or loan moves. While Nicolas Kuhn’s move to Como stood out, it’s Maik Nawrocki’s exit that has left Frank McAvennie disappointed.
Nawrocki joined Celtic in the summer of 2023 alongside Brendan Rodgers’ return, but despite showing promise, he struggled for playing time and has now been loaned out to German second-tier side Hannover 96. McAvennie believes the Polish defender was exceptional whenever given the chance and even considers him Celtic’s best defender.
Speaking on his Let Me Be Frank podcast, McAvennie expressed concern over Rodgers’ decision, hoping the club won’t regret letting Nawrocki leave.
“A few players have moved on, but I feel for Nawrocki,” McAvennie said. “I thought he was a really good player. He never let the team down—when he played those five or six games, he was outstanding. I hope we don’t rue this decision.”
Nawrocki’s Celtic Stats
With limited opportunities, Nawrocki still made an impact:
- Games: 18
- Starts: 12
- Minutes: 1,081
- Clean Sheets: 6
His last two starts were impressive—a 3-0 win over Hearts (8.05 rating) and a 5-1 victory at Aberdeen, where he even scored (7.82 rating). Yet, despite strong performances, he was abruptly sidelined afterward. Only Rodgers knows why, but the stats suggest Nawrocki deserved more trust.
