Celtic winger Yang Hyun-jun has become an indispensable asset for the Scottish champions, a status solidified after he narrowly avoided a January exit to Birmingham City. Instead, he played a pivotal role in securing the domestic league and cup double under Martin O’Neill’s return.
The 24-year-old signed a contract extension this summer, keeping him at the club until 2030, and began the new season in the form he ended the last with. However, his immediate contribution will be interrupted as he joins the South Korean national team for the Asian Games, causing him to miss Celtic’s next four fixtures.
His importance was on full display this week. Yang scored the winning goal against St Mirren on Saturday evening, marking his second strike of the season after netting against Aberdeen midweek. Captain Callum McGregor acknowledged the loss, stating on Sky Sports that Yang is a “big player to miss” despite wishing him well.
Statistically, Yang has been a driving force, contributing two goals and an assist in seven appearances. He typically anchors the left side of Celtic’s attack, a width that is central to their playing style this season. At the international level, South Korea faces Qatar and Saudi Arabia in Japan later this month.
Celtic’s upcoming schedule includes Premiership clashes against St Johnstone and Rangers, alongside a Europa League tie versus Ferencvaros and a home Old Firm derby. The absence of Yang may prove costly given the intensity of these matches.
Substitute Sebastian Tounekti replaced Yang in Paisley but missed a chance created in a nearly identical position to Yang’s goal. While Tounekti, who recorded eight goal involvements last term and recently scored against Dundee United, illustrates the squad’s depth, there is likely to be a noticeable drop in performance without Yang’s influence.
Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner and pundit Rory Loy both praised the team’s high tempo and suggested that Celtic possess the squad strength required to challenge for the treble, even with key players unavailable. Additionally, Portuguese winger Jota is approaching a return from a knee injury sustained in April 2025, which could bolster options further down the line.
Jota’s return will be crucial here. Squad depth is what wins trophies, even if Yang is missed.
Seems like overkill to miss four matches for a tournament. Hope the lads handle the Old Firm without him.
Did he really score against St Mirren already? Two goals in seven games is impressive for a winger.
Yang is absolutely vital for their width. Losing him against Rangers is a huge risk for the treble chase.