Maik Nawrocki is now preparing for life in Germany’s second tier after sealing a loan move to Hannover 96. The Polish defender will be aiming to get his career back on track following a stop-start spell at Celtic where chances were few and far between.
Hannover, a club with top-flight history and decent stature, are looking to push for promotion after falling short in recent seasons. Nawrocki becomes part of their plans to tighten up at the back, with the club identifying defensive issues as a key reason behind their failure to mount a serious challenge last time out.
Despite his lack of minutes in Glasgow, Nawrocki still managed to make an impression on some observers. Former striker Frank McAvennie didn’t hold back in his praise, calling him Celtic’s best defender when he did play. McAvennie’s comments raise questions about whether Nawrocki was given a fair crack of the whip under Rodgers.
The loan move presents a clear opportunity for the 25-year-old to play consistent football and rebuild momentum. With a full season ahead of him in a competitive league, Nawrocki now has the platform to prove himself. Whether that leads to a future at Celtic or elsewhere remains to be seen, but the door isn’t necessarily closed if he delivers in Germany.
He said: (Let Me Be Frank Podcast), “There are a couple of players who went out.
“I feel sorry for Nawrocki. He has gone out, and I thought, ‘that boy was decent.’ I really did. I thought he was a good player.
“I hope we don’t rue that. He never let the team down. He came in, five or six games, and he was outstanding. He was the best defender we had.”
Frank McAvennie’s comments suggest Celtic could end up regretting Nawrocki’s departure if he hits form in Germany. Being called “outstanding” after just a handful of games shows he had something about him, something that might’ve been overlooked too soon.
With Celtic’s defence looking shaky at times last season, some will argue Nawrocki should’ve had a longer run under Brendan Rodgers.
For the player himself, this move to Hannover is a big moment. Regular football in a tough, physical league could help him grow and build confidence. If he plays a part in pushing Hannover toward promotion, it’ll show the kind of qualities Celtic hoped they were getting when they signed him.
From Celtic’s point of view, they’ll need to monitor him closely, especially with a reported option to buy included in the deal. If he performs well, Hannover could look to make the move permanent, and Celtic may have to consider whether letting him go was the right call.
Whatever happens next, this loan gives Nawrocki a proper chance to prove himself. And if McAvennie’s praise is anything to go by, his best football might still be to come, whether that’s back at Celtic or in a long-term future in Germany.
