Celtic midfielder Mika Baur made his debut for Germany tonight. The 22-year-old was introduced off the bench by Jurgen Klopp in a Nations League win over Serbia to become the 1000th capped player.
Prior to being subbed on, legendary ex-Liverpool manager Klopp embraced Baur before slapping a large kiss on his cheek. Members of the German bench found this motivation tactic from Klopp hilarious as the beamed him the background.
Look at the way Jurgen Klopp welcomed 22 year old Mika Baur as he came on for his Germany debut
How can you not love this man https://t.co/6tw2Z8wLD7
— 𝗦𝗮𝗺☆ (@LFC_Sam__) October 1, 2026
Baur’s arrival at Celtic represented a significant step in the career of a midfielder who had steadily built his reputation in German football. A number of other clubs wanted to sign the player, who earned Paderborn’s POTY in Bundesliga 2.
The German International came through Freiburg’s academy before joining Paderborn, while a loan spell with Dynamo Dresden provided further senior experience.
It was at Paderborn that Baur’s career accelerated. His performances during the 2025/26 campaign established him as one of the club’s standout players, contributing goals and assists from midfield before earning a move to Glasgow in the summer of 2026.
Celtic viewed Baur as a player capable of strengthening the first team immediately while retaining considerable scope for development. Clearly Klopp sees something in him too.
His early months in Scotland have offered encouraging signs. Comfortable receiving possession in congested areas and capable of carrying the ball through midfield, Baur has already demonstrated why Celtic were prepared to invest significantly in his potential. There is clearly work to be done and quality coaching will get the best out of Baur but it is positive to see him make his bow for Germany.
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