Marco Tilio is set to leave Celtic for Rapid Vienna on loan, choosing to continue his career in Europe rather than return to Australia. The deal includes a purchase clause, triggered if he makes a certain number of appearances for the Austrian side.

The winger, 23, returned to Melbourne City last season for a short spell, where the A-League club had hoped to keep him longer. Despite interest from his former side, Tilio has decided to pursue another opportunity in European football.

During his time back in Melbourne, Tilio made a strong impression, reminding supporters why he was seen as one of the country’s top young talents. But his focus is now firmly on making an impact in Austria.

Celtic have given the move the go-ahead, with the loan viewed as a chance for Tilio to play regular football and further his progress in a demanding league.

Melbourne City’s Director of Football, Michael Petrillo, paid tribute to Tilio’s impact at the club and backed his decision to return to Europe.

He said: (Melbourne City FC), “Marco has been a tremendous player for our Club – not just for what he’s produced on the pitch, but also for the way he’s conducted himself as a professional.

“He’s played a major role across two successful stints with City and we’ve all enjoyed watching him develop into one of the country’s brightest attacking talents.

“While we were keen to extend his stay and continued discussions with Celtic, we fully support Marco’s ambition to once again challenge himself in Europe.

“We thank him for everything he’s contributed to Melbourne City and wish him every success in the next stage of his career.”

This loan to Rapid Vienna gives Tilio a new platform in a league that has helped many young attackers develop. The Austrian Bundesliga should offer him more consistent first-team minutes as he looks to sharpen his game.

The option for Rapid to make the move permanent shows faith in what Tilio can bring. It also gives the player a clear target, knowing a longer stay is possible if he reaches the required number of games.

From Celtic’s point of view, the move fits with their approach of sending young players out to gain experience at a good level. It also opens the door to either bringing him back more ready or completing a permanent move.

Now stepping away from the A-League again, the focus will be on how quickly Tilio adapts to his new surroundings. If he makes the most of it, this could be a key stage in a career that’s already taken him across the globe.