The signing of Marco Tilio for Celtic was announced last Friday.
The Australian’s move to Parkhead had been long in the making and hotly anticipated following some rave reviews down under.
And now, Dutch coach Rene Meulensteen has given further cause for Hoops fans to be excited about the transfer.
Former gaffer of Brondby, Al-Ittihad and Fulham and current Australia assistant manager, Meulensteen was full of praise for Tilio.
He said (Daily Record):
“He’s an exciting talent and fits the mould of a Brendan Rodgers-type player. Not only does Marco have great qualities in terms of technique, he’s also got a very good temperament and work ethic. I’ve known Brendan a long time and I’m sure we’ll talk again soon about Marco.”
For someone who has worked with Tilio to have said this shows how much of an exciting talent he is.
It is intriguing to hear that he may fit into Celtic’s style of play under their new manager and supporters will be hoping he does.
Moreover, Meulensteen believes that because Celtic have more possession regularly, it will suit Tilio down to a tee:
“The fact that he’ll be joining a team which in domestic games enjoys up to 70 or 80 per cent possession is tailor made for him because he values possession so much, can run with the ball at pace, glides past players and shoots and passes with either foot.”
It seems to be the case with most players coming to Celtic that they may improve their game due to the fact the Bhoys consistently dominate possession domestically although it is not sometimes the case.
Furthermore, Tilio’s national team coach thinks a move like this one for him has been long in the making:
“He’s been building up to this type of career opportunity for some time through his performances for Melbourne City, and I think the time is right for him to make that step up now.”
Tilio has finally got his big break by landing the move to Celtic.
Albeit there is a wealth of competition in the Hoops’ squad even with Jota’s departure, the 21-year-old will be backing himself to succeed.
