FC Bayern Faces Off Against Former Star Nicolas Kühn in Celtic Clash

GLASGOW, Scotland — The FC Bayern Munich squad travels to Scotland this week, where they will reunite with a familiar face: former youth player Nicolas Kühn, who currently shines with Celtic Glasgow.

This season, Kühn has become a standout player in the Scottish Premiership, leading the league with ten goals and six assists. His performances have helped Celtic claim the top position in the league standings.

The match on Tuesday marks a significant moment as Celtic hosts Bayern Munich in the first leg of their playoff tie at Celtic Park, before moving to Munich for the return leg in six days. Celtic qualified for the knockout round of the UEFA Champions League, notably finishing ahead of heavyweights like Manchester City.

Kühn, 25, was with Bayern from 2020 to 2022 but struggled to break into the first team, making only 37 appearances for the reserve squad. After loan spells with Erzgebirge Aue and Rapid Wien, he found his footing in January 2024, joining Celtic where he has since thrived.

Last season, Kühn’s impact was immediate. He helped the team secure both the league title and the Scottish Cup, leading to their advancement in the Champions League. His impressive preseason performance, including a standout showing in a friendly match against Bayern, has drawn praise from fans and media alike. “He was the star in the first half,” reported the Spanish outlet As, while Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers lauded Kühn’s impressive finishing and playmaking skills.

Rodgers has emphasized the importance of aggressive play from his wingers. “We encourage our wide players to go into the penalty area and make attacking movements,” he said, underscoring his expectations for Kühn and his teammates.

RB Leipzig experienced Kühn’s prowess firsthand, as they struggled in their Champions League campaign, ultimately falling short. Ahead of the match, Bayern acknowledged Kühn’s development during his time at Celtic, describing him as a “tricky attacker” who is excelling in his current role.

Kühn has expressed aspirations of returning to Germany’s top flight, stating, “It would be nice to play in the Bundesliga one day, maybe even again with Bayern, but in the first team.” He has also set his sights on representing the German national team.

As the two teams prepare for their matchups, Kühn has the chance to further prove himself, not only to his current club’s supporters and coaching staff but also to Bayern and the national selectors. While he has been successful in Scotland, a move to one of Europe’s top leagues remains a goal that has yet to be fulfilled.