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Michel Ange Balikwisha claims Celtic cost him his World Cup dream as flop brands himself a £20m player

The raging winger is currently on loan in Belgium with Gent - and netted his first goal for the club last weekend

By Mark Pirie · Daily Record

Published: Thursday, 15 October 2026 at 8:43 AM

Key Things to Know

Michel Ange Balikwisha claims Celtic cost him his World Cup dream by rejecting an MLS loan deal.
Balikwisha revealed he was dropped from the squad after manager Martin O'Neill took charge.
The winger admitted wanting to be substituted ten minutes into his Old Firm debut against Rangers.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Winger Michel Ange Balikwisha claims Celtic cost him a spot at the World Cup after rejecting an MLS loan move. The DR Congo international, who joined Celtic in a £5 million deal under Brendan Rodgers, revealed he was dropped from the squad under Martin O'Neill following his return from the Africa Cup of Nations.

Balikwisha admitted struggling with the intensity of Scottish football, noting he wanted to be substituted ten minutes into his Old Firm debut. Currently on loan at Gent, the 25-year-old hopes the Belgian side activates their purchase option to make the move permanent and eventually sell him on.

Read the full article on Daily Record

Michel Ange Balikwisha claims Celtic cost him his World Cup dream as flop brands himself a £20m player

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