The Story Behind Paulo Bernardo’s Celtic Exit Revealed by Shaun Maloney

Shaun Maloney Reveals Why Paulo Bernardo Left Celtic

Shaun Maloney has shed light on the circumstances behind Paulo Bernardo’s unexpected departure from Celtic, explaining that the midfielder’s move was primarily motivated by his desire for more regular first-team football.

Bernardo has joined Polish side Górnik Zabrze on a season-long loan, with the agreement including an option for the club to sign him permanently at the end of the campaign.

Maloney has now provided further insight into the discussions that ultimately resulted in the Portuguese midfielder leaving Parkhead.

Speaking to TCW, Maloney explained that Celtic had previously been reluctant to let Bernardo leave when another loan opportunity emerged in January. The club wanted him to remain in Glasgow, but the situation eventually changed as it became clear that consistent playing time was difficult to guarantee.

“Paulo and Martin spoke. There was a loan offer for him in January and we really wanted him to stay,” Maloney explained.

“He’s a brilliant professional and a great player, but he needed to play games. Paulo and Martin came to the decision that if he wasn’t going to be a regular here, he should go and get games.”

The comments suggest that Bernardo’s exit was not linked to any concerns over his attitude, commitment or performances in training. Instead, Celtic recognised that the 23-year-old needed a sustained run of matches to continue his development.

Maloney was particularly complimentary about Bernardo’s professionalism, pointing out that the midfielder consistently maintained high standards even when he was left out of the squad.

“He is a great professional, a great guy and trains 100 per cent every day, even when he doesn’t make squads,” Maloney added.

“We will see where he is at in 12 months’ time.”

That final remark could prove significant because Górnik Zabrze have the option to make Bernardo’s transfer permanent once his loan spell ends.

As a result, there is currently no certainty that the midfielder will return to Celtic next summer. His performances in Poland could ultimately determine whether Górnik decide to exercise their purchase option.

For Bernardo, however, the immediate objective is straightforward: play regularly and prove what he can offer.

Celtic’s decision also demonstrates that the club continue to value the midfielder. Maloney’s comments make it clear that they were keen to retain him earlier in the year, but the lack of consistent opportunities eventually made a temporary move the most sensible solution.

Now Bernardo has the opportunity to establish himself as an important player at Górnik. If he performs strongly throughout the season, the Polish club could decide to make his stay permanent, potentially bringing an unexpected chapter to his Celtic career.