Yang Hyun-jun's second goal in three days secured victory for Celtic in Paisley on Saturday, but his imminent departure for international duty raises questions about how the Scottish champions will cope without their in-form winger.
For a player who came close to departing for Birmingham City in January, Yang has established himself as essential to Celtic's setup. When Martin O'Neill returned for his second spell as manager, the South Korean remained at the club and delivered crucial goals that helped secure a domestic double. His commitment was rewarded with a new contract in the summer, and he has continued his strong form into the new season.
Yang's impact is quantifiable. He has scored twice and provided an assist across seven appearances so far this campaign, building on a previous season in which he netted 10 goals and created three more. His Saturday winner at St Mirren followed his opening goal of the season in Celtic's 3-0 victory over Aberdeen on September 3, demonstrating his growing influence in matches.
How significant is Yang's absence?
Yang will miss Celtic's next four fixtures while representing South Korea at the Asian Games. According to reports from Scottish sports media, the winger is scheduled to join the South Korean squad on September 6, making him unavailable for the remainder of the month. The tournament's men's football competition runs from September 19 to October 4 in Japan, with Yang selected as one of three overage wild-card players alongside Eom Ji-sung and Lee Ki-hyuk.
Captain Callum McGregor acknowledged Yang's importance to the team. "He is a really important part of the team," McGregor said after the 2-1 win in Paisley. "He's a big player to miss, but obviously we wish him the best."
Width is a critical tactical element in how Celtic are operating this season, and Yang would normally be the automatic choice on the left flank were it not for his international commitments. His absence during a crucial period will test the squad's ability to maintain their early-season momentum.
Who will replace Yang while he is away?
Sebastian Tounekti came on as Yang's replacement in Paisley and had an excellent chance from a position almost identical to where Yang scored, though the Tunisia international failed to convert. However, Tounekti has demonstrated his own quality, having scored and provided an assist in Celtic's 4-0 cup victory at Dundee United earlier in the season, with eight goal involvements across the previous campaign.
The availability of a capable alternative illustrates the strength of Celtic's squad and softens the immediate impact of losing Yang. Additionally, Portuguese winger Jota is nearing a return after recovering from a long-term knee injury sustained in April 2025, which could provide further options during the international break.
What matches will Yang miss?
Celtic face a demanding schedule during Yang's absence. The club will travel to St Johnstone in the Scottish Premiership, then visit Rangers in the League Cup quarter-finals. A home Europa League match against Ferencvaros follows, before the Old Firm derby at Celtic Park in the league. These four fixtures represent some of the most significant tests of the season.
Can Celtic maintain their form without Yang?
Pundit Rory Loy expressed confidence in Celtic's broader ambitions. "Celtic will want to win the treble this season. Behind closed doors, I'm sure all the players and the manager feel they've got the squad to do it."
Former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner highlighted the team's overall performance level. "Celtic played their normal Celtic style but their tempo was really high. The players that came on from the bench kept that tempo up. They're going in the right direction."
The assessment suggests that while Yang's departure will be felt, Celtic's depth and current form may allow them to navigate the period without significant damage to their campaign objectives. However, the loss of a player in such strong form inevitably carries risk, particularly given the calibre of opposition they will face during his absence.
Key Facts
- Yang has scored twice and provided one assist in seven appearances this season
- He will depart for the Asian Games on September 6 and miss four major fixtures
- South Korea's tournament runs from September 19 to October 4 in Japan
- Sebastian Tounekti and the returning Jota provide alternative options on the wing
- Celtic face St Johnstone, Rangers, Ferencvaros and Rangers in the Old Firm derby during Yang's absence
