Giorgos Giakoumakis Celtic exit confirmed as Ange Postecoglou prediction comes true

Giorgos Giakoumakis confirmed his departure from Celtic in an Instagram post – just as Ange Postecoglou predicted.

The Greek striker has joined MLS side Atlanta United in a deal reported to be worth around £4.3million. The move was subsequently confirmed by both clubs after the 28-year-old took to social media to post an emotional farewell to Celtic supporters after 20 months at Parkhead.

Celtic manager Postecoglou was asked about Giakoumakis' future in a media conference last week and said: "To be honest, it's not on my radar any more. I will probably hear it about the same time as you guys. Maybe, if you are on Instagram, you will hear about it earlier than me."

The Australian was proved right with Giakoumakis posting a message on Instagram which read: "Well, that difficult time has arrived! It was an incredible journey! I loved and was loved by the incomparable, amazing Celtic fans! Thank you very much! You will forever be in my heart and mind! I will be forever grateful to you! Goodbye."

Giorgos Giakoumakis has left Celtic to join Atlanta United on a permanent transfer. (Photo by Craig Foy / SNS Group)

Celtic players have responded to the departing striker with defender Stephen Welsh replying: "Good luck ma man." Goalkeeper Joe Hart added: "Good luck big man, with you all the way”, while Greg Taylor posted: “Zeus! What a man will miss you big guy.”

Celtic later confirmed the move in a statement which read: “Giorgos Giakoumakis has joined Atlanta United on a permanent transfer. Everyone at Celtic thanks Giorgos for his efforts for the club and wishes him good luck in Atlanta.”

Giakoumakis joins Atlanta as a Designated Player – one who can earn above the maximum MLS salary cap – until the 2026 season.

“Giorgos is a player who’s been on the club’s radar for a while and we’re excited to bring him to Atlanta,” Vice President and Technical Director Carlos Bocanegra said. “He’s a powerful striker who loves to get in the box and score goals. He plays with a high intensity, works hard and is someone we think will help the team both in the attack and leading the line defensively. We’re excited to welcome him to the club and integrate him into the squad.”

Giakoumakis was joint top scorer in last season’s Scottish Premiership and scored a total of 26 goals in 57 appearances Celtic.