Reo Hatate, the Celtic midfielder, has opened up about the struggles he faced this season due to his injuries, confessing that being sidelined for several months left him feeling down. Despite being only 26 years old, he has had a rough season, making only 12 appearances for Celtic. His injuries started with a hamstring issue during a Champions League match against Atletico Madrid and worsened when he hurt both calves while playing for Japan against Bahrain. After a lengthy recovery period, Hatate is now back in full form for Celtic as they aim to defend their cinch Premiership title against fierce competition from Rangers, with a spotlight on the upcoming Old Firm match at Ibrox on Sunday.
Reflecting on his time off, Hatate said, “I have been plagued by injuries that prevented me from helping the team. I am determined to win more titles and show the Celtic fans why they need me. During my rehabilitation, I carefully evaluated everything from my preparation for competitions to my physical strength, training regimen, and diet. Despite the setback of my third injury this season, I am focused on my return and the goals I have set for myself.”
In his diary for Sportiva, Hatate wrote, “I struggled with feelings of depression during my recovery, but the support of my family helped me stay positive. It is important to acknowledge and process one’s emotions, even during challenging times. I believe that setbacks can ultimately lead to growth and new opportunities, depending on one’s perspective.”
Through introspection, Hatate realized the importance of listening to his body and paying attention to subtle signs of potential injury. He acknowledged a shift in his performance during the match against Bahrain and recognized the need to prioritize his well-being both physically and mentally. Despite the obstacles he faced, Hatate remains determined to make a lasting impact for both Celtic and the Japanese national team.
