‘I want to be an entertainer’ – Haissem Hassan promises Celtic fans a show

Haissem Hassan has promised to bring flair, excitement and plenty of one-on-one dribbling to Celtic after revealing his ambition to become an entertainer at Parkhead.

The Egypt international made a strong impression at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, particularly during his side’s narrow Round of 16 defeat to reigning champions Argentina.

His performances attracted significant attention, with Hassan admitting that his phone was flooded with interest after the tournament. Despite the sudden rise in his profile, the winger insists his mind was already made up about his next destination.

“I want to be an entertainer. When I was young I watched a lot of videos of Neymar, Ronaldinho, and Robinho, like all the Brazilian players – and like the showmen.

“Obviously, football becomes a bit more like a business. But in the end, it’s like a sport and you want to have pleasure on the pitch and enjoy it. That’s what I want when I go onto the pitch.”

Hassan said he wants his style of play to give Celtic supporters something to look forward to whenever they turn up at Celtic Park.

“I know we need to win and play well. But I want the fans to be excited when they come to Celtic Park watching us play. There is always that part of giving people excitement.

“I’m pretty confident in my strengths in creating entertainment and being that winger that dribbles and beats people 1v1,” the Egyptian added.

Celtic were already interested

The 24-year-old revealed that Celtic’s interest predated his World Cup breakthrough, a factor that played a major role in his decision to leave Real Oviedo for Scotland.

“I’d by lying if I said my phone didn’t go crazy, my agents had a lot of work. But I guess that’s normal.

“Playing in the World Cup for one or two games can change everything, especially playing against Argentina.

“But I’m convinced that Celtic is the right step for me and I’m really excited to be here.”

Hassan explained that Celtic’s early interest convinced him the club’s faith in his ability was genuine.

“They wanted me in January, so it definitely made an impact on the decision as well, knowing that they were already here well before everyone and that they believed in me in what they saw in Spain.”

Hassan targets bigger numbers

While confident in his ability to beat defenders, Hassan accepts that he must become more productive in front of goal.

“I also know my areas of improvement, and I know I need to be more decisive with goals and assists. I think Celtic will help me in that aspect as well, being more dominant with better players and attacking football.

“That’s something I want to work on this season, going from being a player that can beat someone 1v1 to also being someone who scores goals and gets assists.”

With Celtic offering an attacking platform and Hassan determined to add end product to his flair, the Egyptian is now hoping his next chapter will turn him from World Cup sensation into a Parkhead favourite.