Absolutely — Reo Hatate’s performance over the weekend was not only a response to recent criticism but a stunning reminder of why he’s so highly regarded among the Celtic faithful and feared by opposition fans alike. The visit of Kilmarnock came at a time of mild unease for Celtic supporters. After an uninspired display against St Johnstone, questions began to emerge over the team’s consistency and individual contributions. Some fans even wondered whether Brendan Rodgers might ring the changes and drop Hatate from the starting XI in favour of shaking things up. But Rodgers trusted his key man, and Hatate more than justified that decision with a performance brimming with class, composure, and creativity.
Celtic’s response was emphatic. Within the first 30 minutes, they had torn through Kilmarnock with four goals, putting the match to bed before halftime. It was the kind of blistering, high-tempo football that the fans at Celtic Park expect — and it was orchestrated in no small part by Reo Hatate. While Cameron Carter-Vickers rightfully earned headlines for his outrageous long-range strike — a goal-of-the-season contender — Hatate’s own contribution was no less impressive. In fact, his goal was a moment of pure technical excellence, the kind that only a select few players in Scotland are capable of producing.
The move was textbook Hatate. A sharp exchange on the edge of the box, a perfectly timed one-two with Adam Idah, a single touch to set himself, and then — with all the calmness in the world — a beautifully curling effort into the top corner. It wasn’t just a goal; it was a statement of intent. It was a goal that said, “I’m still here. I’m still that player who can change games with a single moment.” And for Celtic fans, it was a reassuring sight — the Reo Hatate they know and love, back doing what he does best.
What made the moment even more noteworthy was the praise it drew from an unlikely source: former Rangers player Richard Foster. Speaking on Clyde 1 Superscoreboard, Foster admitted that he actually “laughed” when he saw Hatate’s goal — not out of mockery, but because it was so sublimely executed that it defied disbelief. Foster went on to describe Hatate as “too good,” “too clean,” and “too sharp,” claiming that nobody in Scotland could stop him when he’s playing those one-twos on the edge of the area. It’s rare to hear that kind of admiration from someone associated with Celtic’s fiercest rivals, but it speaks volumes about the kind of talent Hatate possesses.
It’s easy to forget that Hatate is still relatively young and adapting to a league and country very different from where he began his career. Since joining Celtic in early 2022, he’s made a significant impact not only with his goals and assists but with his intelligence on the pitch. He reads the game beautifully, finds space effortlessly, and has that rare ability to control the rhythm of a match from midfield. He’s not just a flair player — he’s a conductor, an architect of Celtic’s most fluid attacking movements.
That being said, Hatate hasn’t been immune to criticism. Like all top-level players, the expectations placed upon him are immense. He’s had patches of inconsistency, and injuries have occasionally disrupted his rhythm. But what makes Hatate special is that even during quieter periods, you know a moment of magic could be just around the corner. That’s the standard he has set for himself — and that’s why the bar is so high when it comes to fan expectations.
His stats this season further underline his importance. While he may not top every goal or assist chart, his influence goes far beyond numbers. His WhoScored ratings in both the Premiership and the Champions League are remarkably consistent, indicating that his level rarely dips, regardless of the opposition. That level of performance across both domestic and European competition is no small feat and is reflective of a player who doesn’t shy away from the big stage.
There’s also something to be said about Hatate’s mental strength. To come into a high-pressure game like the one against Kilmarnock — following a wave of external pressure and whispers about his place in the team — and produce a performance like that takes character. It shows that he’s not just technically gifted, but mentally resilient, capable of responding when the spotlight is at its most intense.
The goal against Kilmarnock will be replayed many times this season, not just for its beauty but for what it represents. It was Hatate reminding everyone — fans, pundits, and perhaps even Brendan Rodgers himself — that he remains one of Celtic’s most vital players. That when he’s fully fit and firing, he brings a level of quality to the midfield that is unmatched in Scottish football.
And let’s not forget the context: Celtic are entering the crucial stages of the season, fighting on multiple fronts and in need of players who can deliver in the key moments. Hatate’s return to form couldn’t have come at a better time. Whether it’s the domestic title race, cup competitions, or tough Champions League ties, having a player like Hatate in peak condition is a massive boost.
It’s also worth noting just how much he means to the fans. Celtic Park has seen its share of midfield maestros over the years, but few have captured the imagination quite like Reo Hatate. There’s a genuine affection for him — not just for the goals or assists, but for the way he plays the game. With flair, intelligence, and joy. He’s one of those players who gets people out of their seats, who makes the game look effortless, and who can turn a routine match into a showcase.
In many ways, his goal against Kilmarnock was more than just another entry in the scoresheet. It was a moment that reminded everyone of what Hatate can do. A glimpse of his potential to be not just one of Celtic’s best current players, but one of the club’s great modern midfielders.
So now the question becomes: can he maintain this level? Can he stay fit and deliver consistently across the final stretch of the season? If he can, there’s no limit to what this Celtic side can achieve with him pulling the strings in midfield. One thing’s for sure — if Reo Hatate continues in this form, there won’t be many teams, either in Scotland or beyond, capable of stopping him.
Do you think this latest goal rivals his iconic strike against Rangers in February 2022? Or has he just added a new contender to his personal highlight reel?