MLS outfit Charlotte FC have completed the signing of Israeli winger Liel Abada from Scottish Premiership giants Celtic.
The 22-year-old has put pen to paper on a contract that runs until 2026, with an option to extend by a further 12 months.
Charlotte are understood to have spent a club-record £10m to lure Abada to America, with the winger recruited as one of the club's young designated players who will occupy an international roster slot.
Abada departs Celtic after winning five major trophies, including two Scottish Premiership titles, as well as scoring 29 goals and providing 22 assists in 112 appearances over a two-and-a-half years period at the club.
The Israel international sat out of Celtic's last five matches due to personal reasons amid the ongoing conflict between his home country and Palestine.
Large numbers of Celtic fans have regularly shown their support for Palestine, with the country's flags flown at Parkhead and supporters collectively singing songs during games amid Israel's ongoing military assault in Gaza.
© Reuters
Manager Brendan Rodgers admitted last month that Abada could soon leave the Hoops as he "does not feel quite right or ready" to play for the club.
Abada will now embark on a fresh challenge in MLS with Dean Smith's Charlotte side and has taken to Instagram to bid farewell to Celtic.
"After two-and-a-half incredible years, the time has come to bid farewell," Abada wrote. "Where do I even begin? Leaving Celtic wasn't in my plans, yet life's unpredictable turns remind us that we're not always in control.
"The past six months have been a personal challenge, yet the overwhelming support from the gaffer, coaches, and board has been my rock. Their unwavering faith during these times won't be forgotten but cherished forever.
"Reflecting on my journey here brings a smile to my face, the trophies lifted, goals celebrated, electric atmospheres, and moments of pure bliss will forever be etched in my memory.
"To my teammates and staff, thank you for pushing me to excel, not just as a player, but as a person. You've all played a pivotal role in shaping who I am today. A special shoutout to my family and my girlfriend, whose steadfast support and love have been my guiding light.
𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐅𝐈𝐑𝐌𝐄𝐃.
— Charlotte FC (@CharlotteFC) March 7, 2024
IT'S ABADA TIME 👑 pic.twitter.com/xgYBTP9T3d
"Arriving in a new country at 19 was daunting, but Niro and his family welcomed me with open arms, making Scotland feel like home from day one. Their kindness made all the difference, on and off the pitch.
"To the incredible Israeli community in Glasgow, you've given me so much warmth and love. You hold a special place in my heart.
"And last but not least thank you to all the Celtic fans. Recent times were very difficult for myself and my family but I want to say thank you to all the Celtic fans that stood by me, supported and respected me as a Celtic player and I hope that I have given you few moments to remember me by.
"It is now time to begin a new chapter on my journey in a new place and with new targets. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for everything."
SIGNED ✍️
— Charlotte FC (@CharlotteFC) March 7, 2024
Liel can't wait to see y'all soon in the QC 👑 pic.twitter.com/WLQ0JNvWvb
Speaking to Charlotte's official website about the arrival of Abada, general manager Zoran Krneta said: "Liel has been one of the most exciting young wingers in Europe and we're delighted to welcome him to Charlotte.
"He's an elite goal scorer and chance creator who is a proven winner that is determined to bring trophies home to the club and our supporters.
"Liel has amassed nearly 200 professional games since making his debut, a stellar number for a 22-year-old, and has experience on Europe's biggest stage - the UEFA Champions League.
"To bring a player of his calibre to Major League Soccer speaks to the strength of the league, but also that Charlotte FC is an attractive destination for top foreign talent."
It remains to be seen whether Abada could be available to make his MLS debut for Charlotte in Saturday's trip to Toronto.
Oliver Thomas
