Stephen Welsh ended his loan spell at KV Mechelen with a strong performance and a goal in a 2-2 draw against Dender. The Celtic defender, who joined the Belgian club in January, scored in what looks like his last game for the team. It was a solid way to finish what has been a good spell abroad.

Welsh played 17 times for Mechelen in the second half of the season. He started every match in the Conference League playoff group, showing that he was trusted him in important games. While Mechelen missed out on European football, finishing third in their group, Welsh impressed with his steady performances at the back.

The 25-year-old looked comfortable in Belgium, playing regular football and gaining confidence. His time at Mechelen showed that he can handle a decent level of football outside Scotland. After not playing much at Celtic earlier this season, the loan gave him a fresh chance to show what he can do.

Now back from loan, Welsh’s future at Celtic is unclear. He is still under contract, but with several defenders ahead of him in the squad, it’s hard to see where he fits in. Players like Carter-Vickers, Scales, Nawrocki and Trusty are all battling for places, and Welsh may not get the minutes he wants.

Stephen Welsh c’est pas si mauvais que ça finalement, il a eu du mal au début (peut-être pcq il était en manque de rythme) pic.twitter.com/d5j1XMHTkm

— 𝕃𝕖 𝕄𝕒𝕝𝕚𝕟𝕠𝕚𝕤 (@LeMalinois25) May 25, 2025

At his age, Welsh is likely looking for a permanent move where he can start most weeks.

After doing well in Belgium, his value has gone up, which could help Celtic if they decide to sell him this summer. Mechelen could even try to bring him back on a permanent deal. Welsh came through the Celtic youth system and has played a number of games for the first team.

But it now seems like the right time for him to move on and start a new chapter in his career. He leaves after proving himself during his loan and giving Celtic something to think about.

Whether it’s in Belgium or somewhere else, Welsh is expected to make a permanent move soon. He may not be part of Brendan Rodgers’ plans going forward, but he’s shown he can still have a strong career elsewhere.