In a moment that has left Scottish football fans rubbing their eyes in disbelief, Rangers legend Ally McCoist has dropped a stunning on-air statement praising Celtic transfer target Haissem Hassan – just hours after the Egyptian speedster was linked with a sensational £4 million move to Parkhead.
McCoist Left Speechless by Hassan’s World Cup Heroics
The 24-year-old winger, currently playing for Real Oviedo in Spain’s Segunda División, produced an electric performance for Egypt against Argentina in the World Cup that left McCoist – a die-hard Rangers icon – completely blown away.
Speaking live on ITV commentary during Egypt’s dramatic 3-2 defeat to Argentina in Atlanta, McCoist could barely contain his excitement as he waxed lyrical about the young talent’s dazzling display on the right flank.
“The finish is magnificent from Zico, but I cannot believe the talent we have seen on the right hand touchline. Haissem Hassan, my goodness me. He gets it 10-15 yards inside his own half, I cannot wait to see it again.”
Ally McCoist on ITV
McCoist was equally effusive in his praise for Hassan’s role in Egypt’s second goal. The Rangers hero’s genuine admiration was palpable, even as he remained blissfully unaware at the time that the player he was raving about had just been strongly linked with a move to Celtic.
Celtic Transfer Links Explode
According to reports, Celtic have identified Hassan as a prime target to bolster their attacking options ahead of the new Scottish Premiership season. The Premiership champions are understood to be admirers of the pacy winger, with serious interest also coming from clubs in Saudi Arabia. Hassan is expected to leave Oviedo following his eye-catching World Cup exploits, and a £4 million fee is being widely discussed.
For a player who has spent time in Spain’s second tier, £4 million represents significant money, but after his showing against Lionel Messi and Argentina, many believe the price tag could rise rapidly.
Hassan Shines on the Biggest Stage
Hassan was the architect behind a sensational counter-attacking goal by Mostafa Zico that was controversially disallowed when Egypt led 1-0. Egypt still went 2-0 up thanks in no small part to Hassan’s brilliance, only for Argentina to mount an incredible comeback, scoring three times in the final 11 minutes in what many are calling a World Cup classic.
His ability to beat defenders with ease, deliver dangerous crosses, and create chaos in transition clearly caught the eye of McCoist and viewers around the world.
Why Haissem Hassan Would Be a Perfect Signing for Celtic
At 24, Hassan is entering his prime years and possesses the raw pace and directness that has become a hallmark of successful wide attackers in the Scottish Premiership. His World Cup performances have shown he can perform against top-level opposition.
Celtic have a strong track record of unearthing gems from unlikely sources, and Hassan’s profile fits that mould perfectly — young, hungry, technically gifted, and with bags of pace. A move to Parkhead would give him regular European football and a platform to develop further.
The Rivalry Angle No One Saw Coming
The timing of McCoist’s comments could not be more ironic. A Rangers legend openly gushing over a potential Celtic signing is the kind of cross-Old Firm moment that fuels endless debate. “Haissem Hassan, my goodness me” has already become a viral meme among fans.
Social media has exploded since the combination of Hassan’s performance and McCoist’s commentary. Celtic supporters are dreaming of a new wide threat who can terrorise defenders, while some Rangers fans are playfully teasing their hero for “bigging up the competition.”
What Happens Next?
With interest from Saudi Arabia also on the table, Celtic will need to move quickly if they are serious about securing his signature. A bidding war could push the fee beyond the initial £4 million mark, but Celtic’s pull could prove decisive.
One thing is certain: Ally McCoist’s on-air reaction has ensured that everyone in Scottish football is now talking about Haissem Hassan. Whether the deal happens or not, the 24-year-old Egyptian has announced himself on the world stage.
“My goodness me” indeed.