Haissem Hassan’s fiery manager bust-up resurfaces as £9m Celtic move nears | OneFootball

Haissem Hassan was forced to issue a public apology last season after an angry celebration towards his Real Oviedo manager landed the reported Celtic target in hot water.

Haissem Hassan of Egypt controls the ball during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 match between Australia and Egypt at Dallas Stadium on July 03, 2026 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty Images)

The 24-year-old Egyptian winger is now believed to be closing in on a move to the Hoops, with reports suggesting the overall package could eventually cost the Scottish champions around £9 million.

Should the transfer be completed, Celtic will be acquiring a player whose final campaign in Spain included one particularly controversial episode involving then-Oviedo boss Veljko Paunovic.

Hassan had been frustrated after being left out of the starting XI for the La Liga meeting with Real Sociedad.

He was eventually introduced from the bench and made an immediate contribution, setting up Leander Dendoncker for an Oviedo goal.

However, it was Hassan’s reaction afterwards rather than the assist itself which attracted the headlines.

The winger raced towards the technical area and directed his celebration at Paunovic, shouting via TCW: “Try putting me on the bench now! Put me on the bench.”

His actions did not go down well inside the club, with Oviedo subsequently confirming that disciplinary proceedings had been opened against the player.

In a strongly-worded response to the incident, the Spanish side stated: “We believe Haissem Hassan disrespected Veljko Paunovic and engaged in actions that cannot be repeated.”

Hassan quickly moved to defuse the situation and, within 24 hours, publicly accepted that his behaviour had crossed the line.

Addressing his manager, teammates, club officials and supporters, Hassan stated: “I want to apologise to my coach Veljko Paunovic and his coaching staff, as well as to my teammates, the board and the Real Oviedo fans.

“My gesture during the goal celebration was wrong, it was inappropriate, and it doesn’t represent the values of this team.

“I will continue to work as I have been so that everyone can be proud of me, and it won’t happen again.”

That apology proved enough for Oviedo to draw a line under the matter, with Hassan ultimately avoiding further punishment from the club.

There was another twist to the story only a matter of weeks later.

Paunovic was relieved of his duties by Oviedo the following month before quickly returning to management after being appointed Serbia boss.

Hassan, meanwhile, could now be preparing for his own change of scenery, with Celtic reportedly on the verge of bringing the Egypt international to Glasgow.

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