Speaking for the First Time, Matt O’Riley describes his departure from Celtic as “emotional”.

Following two and a half transformative years at Celtic, where he emerged as a fan favourite and an important player, particularly under Rodgers, O’Riley’s transfer to the Premier League represents a major turning point in his career.

The 23-year-old Dane opened up about the special relationship he developed with the team and its supporters and said that leaving Celtic was a difficult journey. The choice to go was not taken in a hurry. Although O’Riley acknowledges that leaving Celtic carried a significant personal burden, he was drawn to a fresh challenge. When O’Riley looked back on his time in Glasgow, he was filled with a mixture of appreciation and nostalgia. He acknowledged the significant influence Celtic’s fervent supporters and welcoming environment had on him.

He spoke on Brighton’s YouTube channel: “Leaving Celtic is difficult. People, in my opinion, are unaware of the club’s size until they are up there. I was welcomed into this true family group from the very beginning. The level of fan passion is something I’ve never seen before, making it a very special environment.

“I had an excellent time there. I still get a little teary-eyed when I talk about it since I have such wonderful memories from there. It just seemed like the ideal moment for me to take on a new adventure. All I have left are happy memories. O’Riley starts this new chapter with Brighton and the Celtic fanbase sends him its best wishes. All the way through, he acted like a true professional.