£4.5m Celtic signing relishing fresh start after difficult first season at Parkhead | OneFootball

Celtic loanee Michel-Ange Balikwisha admits he is relishing the chance to play regularly again after returning to Belgium with Gent…

UK: Heart of Midlothian v Celtic, Scottish Premiership at Tynecastle Park, Edinburgh, Scotland on 26 October 2025: Pictured: Michel-Ange Balikwisha Celtic Edinburgh Tynecastle Park Scotland Copyright: xAlexxToddx

The 25-year-old endured a difficult first season at Parkhead following his £4.5million move, making just two league starts before being allowed to leave Celtic on loan.

Balikwisha has already made an encouraging start with Gent, helping his new side secure victories over Club Brugge and OH Leuven.

And the Congo international hopes the move can help him rediscover his best form after struggling for opportunities in Glasgow.

KAA Gent v OH Leuven – Michel-Ange Balikwisha forward of KAA Gent during the Jupiler Pro League match between KAA Gent and OH Leuven on September 4, 2026 in Gent, Belgium, 04/09/2026. Photo Jan De Meuleneir IMAGO

He said via The Herald: “I want to rediscover the joy of playing at Gent.

“For me, it’s fantastic to be able to play again.

“I love being on the pitch and being able to touch the ball, whatever the circumstances.

“This is the club that has been closely monitoring my situation and now wants to give me a fresh start.

“Securing a spot in the Europa Conference League stages made this decision to come here even more appealing.

Antwerp’s Belgian forward #10 Michel-Ange Balikwisha gestures during the Belgian “Pro League” First Division football match between Royal Antwerp FC and Royal Union Saint-Gilloise at Bosuil-Stadium in Antwerp on March 17, 2024. (Photo by KRISTOF VAN ACCOM / BELGA / AFP) / Belgium OUT (Photo by KRISTOF VAN ACCOM/BELGA/AFP via Getty Images)

“Playing on Thursdays and weekends is an attractive prospect.

“There is competition for places here and I know I have to earn my place.

“Just because I come from a club like Celtic doesn’t mean I have to be a starter from the outset.”

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