Rocco Vata has once again proven his worth on the field, scoring an impressive hat-trick for Celtic’s B side.
Vata, the son of former Hoops player Rudi Vata, has consistently shown his scoring prowess, accumulating 10 goals in 11 games this season. Despite this, he still finds himself on the periphery of the Hoops first-team squad.
Last night’s Lowland League triumph against Linlithgow Rose saw Vata in top form, scoring all three goals to secure a 3-0 victory for Darren O’Dea’s team at Excelsior Stadium.
Three goals and three points for the young Hoops as they return to winning ways +3⃣👏#CELLIN | #SLFL | #COYBIG🍀 pic.twitter.com/UI6Y8rcOfE
— Celtic FC B (@CelticFCB) November 1, 2023
This stellar performance places Vata at a crossroads in his burgeoning career. His contract with Celtic is set to expire next summer, and while the Parkhead executives are eager to retain his services, Vata is weighing his options as a number of clubs express their interest.
The Scottish champions stand to receive a modest six-figure compensation fee should Vata decide to move on, a prospect that becomes increasingly likely given the congestion in the first-team squad, and the lack of opportunities for the youngster.
Vata made his senior debut last season under Ange Postecoglou but has yet to break into the matchday squad under Brendan Rodgers’ management, despite his standout performances for the B side.
With players like James Forrest and Mikey Johnston ahead of him in the pecking order, Vata may feel that his path to the senior squad is obstructed, leading to frustration and contemplation of his future with the club.
