Arne Engels’ Ambitions Made Clear in Latest Belgium Comments

Celtic midfielder Arne Engels hopes his increasing minutes for Belgium’s senior team can increase his reputation in his homeland.

Although Domenico Tedesco’s side fell to a disappointing 1-0 loss to Italy last night, Engels caught the eye on his first national team start, impressing until the 71st minute, when he was subbed off.

The Belgian media praised the youngster after the match, hailing his hard endeavour and passing ability in the middle of the park. One particular outlet even stated that Engels proved last night that he could become a ‘mainstay’ in the Red Devils’ midfield for years to come.

The 21-year-old will be keen to retain his place in the lineup when Belgium face Israel in Hungary on Sunday evening.

Regardless, however, the £11m man was delighted to have played last night.

Speaking in the mixed zone after the match, Engels gave his verdict on his performance and outlined how he hopes playing for the national team will increase his reputation in Belgium: “Personally, I’m happy that I was able to show myself,” he said (La Libre).

“People may know me from the Champions League Games with Celtic, but I’ve never played at the highest level in Belgium, so many people don’t really know me.

“I hope that with this Game, I’ve shown what I can do. It was nice to be in the starting line-up for the first time. But of course, it’s a shame we couldn’t win.”

After the Game against Israel at the end of the weekend, Engels’ focus returns to club Football.

Indeed, Celtic are currently preparing for what manager Brendan Rodgers has described as an ‘ultramarathon’ of fixtures from next weekend until March.

Things kick off with a trip to Tynecastle a week on Saturday before Engels’ old academy side, Club Brugge, visits Parkhead in the UEFA Champions League the following Wednesday.

He will again look to heighten his reputation in his homeland with a big performance in Europe that evening.