Maik Nawrocki – Summer return to Celtic remains firmly on table

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The Celtic Star

·9 avril 2026

Maik Nawrocki – Summer return to Celtic remains firmly on table

Maik Nawrocki has suggested that a return to Celtic remains firmly on the table this summer, despite enjoying an impressive and much-needed resurgence during his loan spell in German football this season…

The 25-year-old centre-back joined Hannover 96 in search of regular football after a frustrating period in Glasgow, where injuries and competition for places limited his opportunities following his move from Legia Warsaw in 2023.

Highly rated for his composure on the ball, aerial strength and ability to play out from the back, Nawrocki initially arrived at Celtic with a strong reputation, having impressed in European competition and domestically in Poland.

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However, his time under Brendan Rodgers had been stop-start. A combination of fitness setbacks and the emergence of other defensive options meant he struggled to establish himself as a first-choice pick, making only sporadic appearances. That lack of game time ultimately prompted the decision to seek a loan move, with Hannover providing the ideal platform to rebuild momentum.

Maik Nawrocki trägt ab sofort das 96-Trikot. (Foto: 96/Redaktion)

That move has paid off. Nawrocki has become a regular starter in Germany, showcasing the qualities that first attracted Celtic to him. His performances have helped stabilise Hannover’s defence, while also reminding observers of his potential to develop into a commanding central defender at a higher level. As a result, the Bundesliga 2 side are keen to make the move permanent, reportedly for around £2 million—though that hinges on promotion.

Speaking about his future, Nawrocki made it clear that all options remain open.

Maik Nawrocki in the Celtic celebrations. Scottish Premiership. Wednesday 14 May 2025. Aberdeen 1-5 Celtic. Photo Vagelis Georgariou (The Celtic Star)

“There are several options for me at the end of the season. I could stay here, go back to Celtic or maybe go somewhere completely different,” Maik Nawrocki said as reported by The Herald. “This loan move has worked out very well for me. It was important that I played regularly again after two years of hardly playing. The way we play is also good for me.”

Beyond the footballing benefits, Nawrocki also highlighted the personal advantages of being back in Germany. Born in Bremen, the defender has relished being closer to family after spells abroad in Poland and Scotland.

Cyriel Dessers fouls Maik Nawrocki during the Scottish Premiership match at Celtic Park, Celtic v theRangers, 16 March 2025. Photo O’Rourke Shutterstock

“I am closer to my family in Bremen too,” Nawrocki added. “During my time in Warsaw and at Celtic, we saw each other very rarely. Now it’s only an hour’s drive and I visit more often.

“I really like it in Hannover. The city is incredibly beautiful. I felt comfortable in the team right from the start. And the weather is also much better than in Scotland!”

Celtic v Hearts, Scottish Premiership 29/03/2025. Maik Nawrocki of Celtic during the match at Celtic Park, on 29 March 2025. Photo Malcolm Mackenzie PSI

With two years still remaining on his Celtic contract, Nawrocki’s long-term future may ultimately depend on a combination of Hannover’s promotion push and whether Rodgers sees a place for him back at Parkhead. If he maintains his current form, Celtic could yet welcome back a more confident and battle-hardened defender ready to compete for a starting role.

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