Maik Nawrocki Celtic Exit Agreed as Defender Completes Medical Ahead of Season-Long Loan to Hannover 96…
Celtic centre-back Maik Nawrocki is set to leave Parkhead after agreeing a season-long loan move to German side Hannover 96, with reports confirming that the Polish defender has successfully completed his medical and is on the verge of being officially unveiled.
The 24-year-old, who joined Celtic from Legia Warsaw in 2023 for a reported £4.3 million, had shown flashes of potential during his time in Scotland. However, a combination of injuries and limited opportunities under different managerial regimes curtailed his consistent involvement in the first team. With Celtic now restructuring their defensive options under new leadership, Nawrocki’s departure comes as a strategic decision for all parties involved.
Loan Deal Details
According to Sky Germany and multiple local outlets, Nawrocki’s move to Hannover 96 is structured as a season-long loan with an option to buy at the end of the 2025–26 season. This clause provides the 2. Bundesliga side with the flexibility to assess his performance before committing to a permanent deal, while giving Nawrocki the opportunity to reboot his career in familiar surroundings.
The deal is viewed as a significant addition for Hannover, who are aiming to mount a serious promotion challenge back to the Bundesliga this season. Nawrocki’s blend of top-flight experience in Poland and Scotland, combined with his tactical discipline and ball-playing ability, fits well into coach Stefan Leitl’s evolving defensive setup.
Medical Completed – Announcement Imminent
Sources close to the club have confirmed that Nawrocki completed his medical examination in Hannover earlier this week, with no complications reported. Paperwork is being finalized, and an official announcement from both clubs is expected within days.
Fans of Hannover 96 have already expressed excitement over the signing on social media, viewing Nawrocki as a promising reinforcement to replace recently departed defenders and to bolster a backline that lacked consistency last season.
Celtic’s Perspective
While Celtic had high hopes for Nawrocki following his arrival, competition for places—with the likes of Cameron Carter-Vickers, Gustaf Lagerbielke, and Stephen Welsh all featuring prominently—meant the Polish defender struggled to cement a regular spot. The loan deal helps free up wages and squad space as Celtic continues reshaping its team for domestic dominance and European competition.
Insiders believe Celtic will monitor Nawrocki’s performance closely throughout the season in Germany, with the option-to-buy clause structured to ensure value protection for the Scottish champions should the player’s form surge abroad.
A Return to Roots
Born in Bremen, Germany, and having come through the Werder Bremen youth ranks, a move back to the German football system is seen as a homecoming of sorts for Nawrocki. It offers him the chance to re-establish his career trajectory in a league that values defensive organization and tactical discipline.
With Hannover aiming to return to the Bundesliga, Nawrocki will have the platform, support, and competitive environment needed to revive his form and reputation.
At a Glance: Maik Nawrocki’s Loan Move
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From: Celtic FC (Scotland)
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To: Hannover 96 (Germany)
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Type: Season-long loan (2025–26)
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Option to Buy: Yes
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Medical: Completed
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Official Announcement: Expected within days
As both clubs prepare for a new season, this move looks like a win-win—Celtic offload a fringe player while Hannover 96 secure a quality defender in their bid for promotion. All eyes will now be on Nawrocki to see if he can turn potential into consistent performances in the German second division.
