Martin Dubravka’s Euro 2024 dreams were dashed Sunday night as England clinched a victory in extra time, potentially setting the stage for his move to Celtic.
The seasoned Slovakian goalkeeper, aged 35, showcased his quality on the international stage, helping his nation surpass expectations by reaching the knockout stages.
However, his journey ended abruptly when England’s Jude Bellingham delivered a stunning bicycle kick in the 95th minute, followed swiftly by Harry Kane’s clincher, sealing the deal for Gareth Southgate’s squad and sending Slovakia packing.
Today’s results…#EURO2024 pic.twitter.com/LzNh1zWsSW
— UEFA EURO 2024 (@EURO2024) June 30, 2024
Back at club level, Dubravka finds himself at a crossroads. Newcastle United, keen to freshen up their goalkeeping department, is reportedly eyeing a younger goalkeeper to challenge Nick Pope, who struggled with injury last season, signalling that Dubravka’s days at St James’ Park might be numbered. TalkSPORT reported that Newcastle is open to letting Dubravka move if he wishes to seek new opportunities.
With just one year left on his contract and Newcastle’s apparent desire for a new keeper, Dubravka could be looking for a new home sooner rather than later.
Celtic, on the hunt for a successor to the retired Joe Hart, have been linked to Dubravka throughout the Euros.
He could look at what Joe Hart achieved with Celtic as he approached the tail end of his career, while the lure of Champions League football and the chance to vie for domestic silverware could be just the ticket for the Slovak.
You can’t help but feel that this is a short-term fix. You’d want Celtic to push for a younger goalkeeper who could offer Celtic a good few seasons, but it wouldn’t be the worst signing this summer.
