Celtic's early exit from the Champions League has thrown a wrench in their transfer strategy for a new playmaker. The Glasgow club had hoped to bring in a replacement for Arne Engels, who left for PAOK in Greece. However, the club's failure to progress beyond the group stage has raised doubts about their ability to attract top talent.

With the Champions League campaign ending prematurely, Celtic's focus has shifted to domestic competitions. This has limited their ability to negotiate with potential signings. PAOK, on the other hand, has taken advantage of the situation, positioning itself as a strong contender for the playmaker spot.

The club's management is now under pressure to deliver results in the Scottish Premiership. The loss of Engels and the uncertainty around his replacement could impact their performance in the coming months. Celtic fans will be hoping the team can recover quickly and regain their competitive edge.

The situation highlights the challenges clubs face when balancing European and domestic ambitions. As the season progresses, Celtic will need to find a way to stabilize their squad and regain confidence on the pitch.