Celtic have confirmed the departure of Paulo Bernardo. The Portuguese midfielder had been expected to leave this summer after failing to force his way into Martin O’Neill’s plans.
In an announcement on Tuesday evening, Celtic confirmed that Bernardo had left to join Polish side Górnik Zabrze on loan. The Polish side hold an option to buy the ex-Benfica midfielder.
Paulo Bernardo has joined Polish side Górnik Zabrze on loan, with an option to buy.
Best of luck, Paulo!#CelticFC🍀 https://t.co/HkW79ZuiQD pic.twitter.com/hbi1OCzvCv
— Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) August 4, 2026
Signed from Benfica on an initial loan deal, Bernardo impressed in Brendan Rodgers’ first season back at the club. The highlights from that campaign include a goal against Rangers as well as the shot that led to Adam Idah’s winner in the Scottish Cup Final against the Ibrox side.
Celtic signed Bernardo on a permanent deal in the summer of 2024 and he was a regular fixture before picking up an injury against Raith Rovers that happened his progression. Rodgers departure led to O’Neill coming in along with Nancy and neither found a place for him, pushing him down the pecking order. It is a shame that a promising Celtic career has not come into fruition for Bernardo.
The 24-year-old signed to a new agent in April as it became increasingly apparent that his time at Celtic Park was at an end.
There is a very talented player there and hopefully he realises this in Poland.
3 Comments
Martin doesn’t make many mistakes. But I think not giving this man a proper opportunity is definitely one huge mistake!
Had some big moments and then faded. When he played well he was good.
Disappointed that things have not gone well.
Paolo stopped developing. There is no queue of clubs waiting for his signature