Celtic midfielder Arne Engels has the potential to develop into a “world-class” player, according to former Hoops icon Stylian Petrov.

The Belgian midfielder, who joined Celtic for a club-record £11m from FC Augsburg on the final day of the 2024 summer transfer window, endured a slow start to life in Glasgow but is now thriving under Brendan Rodgers.

With multiple man of the match awards under his belt, big performances on the biggest stage and tying down a regular starting spot in the team, he’s establishing himself in Celtic’s midfield.

He’s catching the eye of many now, including Stan Petrov.

Speaking to Gambling.com, Petrov was full of praise for the Belgian’s all-round ability and tipped him to reach the top level if he continues to develop at Celtic.

“He has all the tools [to become an elite or world-class player] – technically, tactically, and physically, especially. He’s got all the attributes.

“He’s in the right place playing at Celtic, because if he continues to develop in the same way that will create an even bigger winning mentality in him. He’s working with a really great manager who does develop players, does develop their play, and it’s something that will help him.

“But also having players like Callum McGregor, who has seen many, many good players going through the club – he will guide him in the right direction and make sure that he produces performances at the right level.”

Engels’ slow start in Glasgow raised some eyebrows, with fans and pundits questioning whether the £11m outlay was justified. However, Brendan Rodgers took a measured approach, gradually integrating the midfielder and allowing him to adjust to the demands of playing for Celtic.

Now, Engels is becoming a vital part of the team, contributing both offensively and defensively and impressing with his work rate, creativity, and intelligence on the ball.

There’s a lot more to come from the midfielder.