Matt O’Riley had his record-breaking Celtic exit confirmed on Tuesday afternoon.

After two-and-a-half impactful years at Celtic, where he became a fan favourite and a key figure on the field, especially under Rodgers, O’Riley’s move to the Premier League marks a significant step in his career.

The 23-year-old Dane described the process of leaving Celtic as difficult, opening up on the unique bond he formed with the club and its supporters. The decision to leave was not made hastily. O’Riley felt the pull of a new challenge but admits that the emotional weight of departing Celtic was considerable.

Reflecting on his time in Glasgow, O’Riley expressed a mix of nostalgia and gratitude, acknowledging the profound impact that Celtic’s passionate fanbase and familial atmosphere had on him.

He told Brighton’s YouTube channel: “It’s hard to leave Celtic. I think people don’t realise how big the club is until you get up there. It’s a real family club and one I was made to feel welcome at very early on. It’s a very unique place in terms of the passion the fans have, that’s something I’ve never experienced before.

“I thoroughly enjoyed my time there. I’m still a little bit emotional speaking about it because I have such good memories there. I just felt like the right time for a new challenge for me. I only leave with fond memories.”

As he embarks on this new chapter with Brighton, O’Riley does so with the best wishes of the Celtic support. He was a true professional until the very end.