Celtic star faces potential banishment to the Balikwisha squad following a major tactical change by Martin O’Neill.

Celtic’s training ground at Lennoxtown has undergone a dramatic transformation over the past year. From upgraded pitches to enhanced gym facilities and more modern dressing rooms, the club has clearly invested heavily in improving its infrastructure. On the surface, everything appears to be moving forward in a positive direction. However, beneath that polished exterior lies a far more intriguing—and symbolic—development tied to the team’s internal dynamics.

Celtic midfielder Reo Hatate

The Emergence of the “Balikwisha Suite”

Within the revamped training complex, there is said to be a hidden section tucked away from the main footballing activity. This secluded area, humorously dubbed the “Balikwisha Suite,” serves as a metaphorical holding zone for players who have fallen out of favor. Much like a cluttered attic where unused belongings are stored, it represents a space reserved for those who are no longer central to the manager’s plans.

The name itself stems from Michel-Ange Balikwisha, who has become the symbolic face of this exile. Once expected to contribute meaningfully, the Belgian winger now finds himself on the fringes, his £5 million transfer fee increasingly viewed as a burden rather than an investment.

More Players Joining the Fringes

Balikwisha may have been the first occupant of this metaphorical suite, but he is unlikely to remain alone. Recent developments suggest that others are drifting toward the same uncertain status. Among them is Tomas Cvancara, whose recent absence from matchday involvement has raised questions about his role in the squad.

Similarly, Paulo Bernardo appears to be slipping out of regular contention. While he has occasionally featured, his involvement has been inconsistent, and he now risks being grouped with those considered expendable.

January arrivals such as Joel Mvuka and Junior Adamu are also hovering around the periphery. Their presence suggests that the club’s recruitment has not fully aligned with the manager’s evolving tactical vision.

A Shock Name: Reo Hatate

Perhaps the most surprising development is the potential inclusion of Reo Hatate among those at risk of being sidelined. Once regarded as one of Celtic’s most influential players, Hatate’s recent lack of involvement signals a significant shift.

The 28-year-old midfielder has not started any of the last four matches and has accumulated only 17 minutes of playing time during that stretch. Notably, he remained on the bench during a crucial 3-1 victory over Falkirk and was also unused in a tense Scottish Cup tie against St Mirren, even as the team struggled.

For a player of his pedigree, such exclusion is both unexpected and telling.

Declining Trust from the Manager

The question naturally arises: why has Hatate fallen out of favor? While Martin O’Neill has avoided directly addressing the issue, the answer appears rooted in tactical priorities.

Hatate’s technical ability has never been in doubt, but his tendency to take risks on the ball has become a concern. In previous seasons, Celtic could accommodate such unpredictability due to the presence of teammates capable of compensating defensively. That is no longer the case.

With several players struggling for consistency and fitness, the margin for error has narrowed. O’Neill now seems determined to reduce unnecessary risks and prioritize control over flair.

A Shift Toward Stability Over Creativity

This tactical evolution has led to a preference for more disciplined and reliable players. Individuals like Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Luke McCowan have been favored due to their ability to maintain structure and execute the manager’s game plan.

The return of James Forrest to the starting lineup further underscores this approach. Experience, positional awareness, and consistency are now valued more highly than individual brilliance.

This philosophy reflects a broader attempt to stabilize a team that has struggled to maintain control throughout matches this season.

The Blueprint Revealed Against Falkirk

Celtic’s recent victory over Falkirk offered a clear glimpse into O’Neill’s preferred system moving forward. The performance highlighted a more structured and disciplined approach, designed to maximize efficiency while minimizing vulnerabilities.

Daizen Maeda played a pivotal role, leading the line with energy and purpose. His improved finishing added a new dimension to his game, making him a central figure in the team’s attacking strategy.

Meanwhile, Kelechi Iheanacho was utilized as a backup option, ready to be deployed when necessary rather than as a primary starter.

The Importance of Arne Engels

Another key factor in Celtic’s improved performance was the return of Arne Engels. His presence in midfield provided much-needed balance and stability.

Engels’ positional awareness and composure on the ball allowed the team to function more cohesively. His ability to contribute both defensively and offensively made a significant difference, particularly in maintaining the team’s structure.

His return also enabled Callum McGregor to focus on dictating play rather than covering defensive gaps. This adjustment enhanced the overall efficiency of the midfield.

Improved Pressing and Tactical Discipline

The match against Falkirk also showcased a more effective pressing strategy. Celtic were able to win possession higher up the pitch, applying sustained pressure on their opponents and limiting counterattacking opportunities.

Although there were still moments of vulnerability, the overall performance suggested progress. The team’s ability to maintain intensity and organization marked a notable improvement compared to earlier displays.

Balancing Strengths and Limitations

Despite these positive signs, the system is not without its flaws. There were periods during the Falkirk match where fatigue became evident, and the team struggled to maintain control. Substitutions could have been introduced earlier to address these issues.

Nevertheless, the overall approach represents a pragmatic solution to the challenges Celtic have faced this season. It may not be perfect, but it provides a workable framework for the final stretch of the campaign.

The Role of Supporting Players

Additional contributions from players like Alistair Johnston and Sebastian Tounekti have also been important. Johnston’s forward runs add width and attacking impetus, while Tounekti offers versatility as an impact substitute.

These supporting roles are crucial in maintaining balance and providing options within the squad.

Celtic’s Reo Hatate looks dejected as Dundee United’s Will Ferry scores to make it 1-0

The Road Ahead for Hatate

As Celtic approach the decisive phase of the season, Hatate faces a critical challenge. With the manager favoring a more conservative and structured approach, he must adapt his game to regain a place in the team.

While his talent remains undeniable, it may not be enough on its own. Demonstrating consistency, discipline, and alignment with the tactical system will be essential if he hopes to avoid prolonged exclusion.

A Defining Tactical Gamble

Ultimately, Martin O’Neill’s strategy represents a calculated gamble. By prioritizing control and minimizing risk, he aims to guide Celtic through a demanding run of fixtures.

The success of this approach will depend on the team’s ability to execute the plan consistently and secure the necessary results.

Conclusion: A Battle for Relevance

The concept of the “Balikwisha Suite” may be tongue-in-cheek, but it reflects a very real aspect of squad management. Players who fail to align with the manager’s vision risk being left behind, regardless of their past contributions.

For Celtic, the focus is firmly on achieving success in the present. For individuals like Hatate, the challenge is to prove they still belong in that pursuit.

As the season reaches its climax, the line between inclusion and exclusion has never been thinner—and the stakes have never been higher.

Michael Gannon is a seasoned sportswriter with the Daily Record, widely recognized for his in-depth coverage of Scottish football—particularly Celtic FC.

He has built a strong reputation for insightful analysis and opinion pieces, often focusing on the inner workings, performances, and key figures surrounding Celtic. Beyond football, Gannon also brings expertise in boxing and golf, making him a versatile voice within sports journalism.

Having been part of Reach plc since 2011, he has over a decade of experience delivering news, features, and commentary across multiple sports, earning credibility among readers for his consistent and informed reporting.