For much of the last four years, Karamoko Dembele has been tipped to be Celtic’s next big star. Since transferring to Scotland, the attacker has featured numerous times under Neil Lennon’s management. So, let’s take a look at Dembele’s current situation, as well as analysing why Celtic is the best club for his development.
He’s in the Right Place to Continue his Development
Throughout the modern era of football, young players have often caught the eye at a young age and chased a big-money money move far too soon in their careers. While there is always a risk that some will look for a transfer to a top European club when they begin to attract media attention, there is less chance of that happening with Dembele.
While, at the time, it may not have been beneficial to both Celtic and Dembele, the London-born winger gained widespread attention shortly after moving to Scotland as he was named player of the tournament at the St Kevin’s Boys Academy Cup in 2016. Following his rise to stardom, Dembele has continued to attract interest from Premier League clubs, including Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal and Chelsea. However, the Hoops have, thus far, been able to retain their young prodigy after he signed a professional deal back in December 2018.
Fundamentally, Celtic’s commitment to Dembele’s long-term future illustrates that he is in the perfect place to grow as a player. At the time of writing, the now 17-year-old has made only two first-team appearances for the reigning Scottish champions, with his professional debut coming in a 2-1 victory over Hearts at the back-end of last season. Crucially, Lennon and his backroom staff deserve credit for their management of Dembele. Over the years, immensely talented players, such as Michael Owen, have failed to sustain top-class form throughout their careers having played too many games too early on. Crucially, this sporadic use of Dembele will ensure that he doesn’t burn out too quickly, while also showing him that he has a role to play in Celtic’s future, as they will once again be favourites to clinch the Scottish Premiership next season with the UK’s best bookmakers at SBO.net.
What’s Next for Dembele?
Although he has only featured for the first team on three occasions, Lennon has already expressed his delight at Dembele’s contributions. The London-born attacker, however, currently finds himself in an unusual predicament. At present, Dembele is showing signs that he has developed beyond the level played in youth football. That said, he’s competing with established top-flight players, such as James Forrest, meaning that a first-team spot is proving hard to come by.
However, it’s testament to this young player’s technical ability that he has been at the centre of an international tug-of-war between both England and Scotland for his allegiance. Having not made a senior appearance yet, the choice of who to represent is available to Dembele. At youth level, the winger had represented each of the above, playing for England’s U15s and U17s, in addition to Scotland’s U16s and U17s.
Patience Required from All Parties
Ultimately, while many Celtic supporters may want to see Dembele gracing the Celtic Park turf on a consistent basis, they, along with the player himself, will need to show patience. Lennon is well aware of the youngster’s talent and, when the time is right, won’t hesitate to unleash the winger both in the SPL and Europe.
