Celtic midfielder Reo Hatate was the standout performer in Celtic’s thrilling 3-1 victory over RB Leipzig at Parkhead, with his stunning display at the heart of midfield helping propel the Bhoys to a crucial win. With seven points now on the board at the halfway point of the Champions League group stage, Brendan Rodgers’ side are in a strong position to secure progression to the knockout rounds, making their European dreams a real possibility.

After Celtic’s impressive 3-1 victory over RB Leipzig, praise has been heaped on several key performers who contributed to the statement result. Nicolas Kuhn stole the spotlight with a sensational double against his former club, earning most of the post-match attention for his clinical finishing and overall contribution to the win. His performance, alongside stellar displays from other teammates, ensured that Celtic sent a strong message in the Champions League group stage.

While Nicolas Kuhn rightly took much of the spotlight for his brace, Reo Hatate’s performance against RB Leipzig should not be overlooked. The Japanese midfielder delivered a brilliant display, capping his all-around masterclass with his first-ever goal in the Champions League to seal the win for Celtic.

Amid discussions surrounding Hatate’s recent form, Chris Sutton has spoken about the significant change he’s noticed in the midfielder, especially following the Bhoys’ magical night at Parkhead. Sutton highlighted how Hatate has evolved and stepped up to the occasion, showcasing his growing maturity and consistency at the highest level.

Chris Sutton Salutes Celtic Star Reo Hatate Amid Leipzig Display

Writing for The Daily Record, Chris Sutton praised Reo Hatate for his recent performances, particularly in Celtic’s standout 3-1 win over RB Leipzig. Sutton pointed out that the fact Brendan Rodgers didn’t take Hatate off in crucial fixtures like the Aberdeen match or the Leipzig clash was a clear sign of his growing importance to the team.

Sutton explained: “Four Champions League games so far and Hatate has started in three of them. The Old Firm game. Started. The Cup semi-final against Aberdeen. Started. That tells you what he’s delivering for Rodgers on a day-to-day basis. But something else has caught my attention with Hatate over the past week.” Sutton went on to highlight the midfielder’s increased maturity and the value he brings to Celtic’s engine room, noting that his consistency and influence on big occasions are growing stronger.

Chris Sutton continued to reflect on Reo Hatate’s transformation, acknowledging that there was once a perception that the midfielder struggled to last the full 90 minutes in games. Sutton noted, “I’m sure I’m not the only one who felt that, at times, he wasn’t getting through games. When the subs board went up after an hour or so, you sensed he would be one to get replaced. Myth or not, it happened plenty in the past.” However, Sutton pointed out that Hatate has silenced those doubts with his recent performances, particularly in the high-intensity matches against Aberdeen and Leipzig, showing a new level of endurance and consistency.

Chris Sutton continued his praise of Reo Hatate, emphasizing the midfielder’s remarkable performance against RB Leipzig. He stated, “Hatate justified Rodgers’ faith and more. Not only did he grow even stronger in that last hour, he added his first-ever Champions League goal to seal the deal.”

Sutton highlighted the significance of Hatate’s 90-minute performance, noting, “Make no mistake, that 90-minute performance of that quality against that standard of opponent is a real statement from the player of where he’s at once again.” He went on to commend Hatate’s return to his best, praising his “outrageous talent” and “engine to keep it all running,” acknowledging that the Japanese midfielder is back to his thrilling best and making a real impact for Celtic.

Sutton further reflected on Reo Hatate’s development, noting, “At 26, he’s five years older than Arne Engels, four more than Paulo Bernardo, and looks to be really grasping that senior-figure responsibility.” He added, “It was where I thought he’d be last season,” highlighting how Hatate’s growth has been significant, both in terms of his performances and his maturity as a leader in the squad.

Sutton concluded, “No wonder Hatate and the boss were smiling together afterwards,” underscoring the pride Hatate and Brendan Rodgers must have felt following such a standout display, as it marked a milestone in the midfielder’s evolution at Celtic.

Reo Hatate Continues to Shine for Celtic

Reo Hatate has been making his presence felt for Celtic this season, contributing four goals and an assist in 17 appearances across all competitions. The Japan international has also been influential in creating chances, with 14 opportunities created in league matches, according to Fotmob. Additionally, Hatate has completed six dribbles, boasting a 100% success rate in that area, showcasing his skill on the ball.

While some had raised questions earlier this season, Hatate has responded by continuing to deliver consistently for Celtic, taking on added responsibility in the midfield. His performances reflect his growing maturity and importance to the team as he steps into a senior role at the club.