[ODDS and EVENS] Kyogo Furuhashi Leaves an Indelible Mark on Celtic FC

Read the full story on SportsLook - [ODDS and EVENS] Kyogo Furuhashi Leaves an Indelible Mark on Celtic FC

Kyogo Furuhashi made a profound impact for Celtic FC in his three-and-a-half-year spell with the Glasgow-based club. Looking back on his time with the team, one quickly remembers the 85 goals he scored in 165 matches (in all competitions). 

But equally unforgettable is the joy that embodied the way he played. For Furuhashi, each goal seemed to represent the Happiest Moment Ever in his career, as documented in videos and photos. He was always thrilled when a teammate scored for the storied franchise.

Furuhashi's departure from Scotland to play for French Ligue 1 side Rennes represents a new opportunity to test his football skills against tougher competition.

It also marks the end of a special bond between Furuhashi and Celtic fans.

In a statement to mark his departure, Furuhashi, 30, spoke about the strong attachment he developed with the team's loyal fans.

"Over the past three-and-a-half years, I have been truly grateful for your wonderful support and cheering," Furuhashi said in a statement. "From the moment I joined until my final day, I've been happy every step of the way."

He continued: "Being able to enjoy so many wonderful moments and achievements with all of you made me feel like the happiest player in the world countless times. I believe these invaluable experiences were only possible because I came to Celtic."

Furuhashi Grateful for Fans' Support

In Furuhashi's evocative remarks, he paid tribute to the fans for rooting for him during his successful tenure at Celtic Park. 

While at this stage of his career, he is ready to move on to a new challenge, the Nara Prefecture native will always remember the supporters who inspired him and teammates who helped him achieve great things for Celtic. This includes winning three Scottish Premiership titles and three Scottish League Cups. He also led the Scottish Premiership with 30 goals in the 2022-23 season, earning Player of the Year accolades.

"Even as time goes on, I am deeply moved and encouraged by the many warm messages and kind words I continue to receive, and I cannot thank you enough," Furuhashi said in his statement, addressing the team's fans. "I move forward but I will keep all of you in my heart and continue on my journey."

Continue reading the full story on SportsLook.

RELATED:

• Kyogo Furuhashi is Enduring a Difficult Third Season with Celtic FC
• ANALYSIS | The Top 10 Japanese Footballers in Europe
• Kyogo Furuhashi Signs a Four-Year Contract to Stay with Celtic FC

Author: Ed Odeven

Find Ed on JAPAN Forward's dedicated website, SportsLook. Follow his [Japan Sports Notebook] on Sundays, [Odds and Evens] during the week, and X (formerly Twitter) ＠ed_odeven.