Former Celtic striker Kyogo has revealed why he left the club and rejected a sensational return to Parkhead in January, speaking exclusively to Record Sport from his new home in Los Angeles.
The Japanese forward, who recently joined LA Galaxy, scored 85 goals in three-and-a-half years at Celtic, winning eight trophies including three league titles. He left for Rennes in a £10million move in January 2025, but struggled in France and moved to Birmingham City after six months.
Kyogo explains Celtic exit
Kyogo, now 31, said the time was right to seek a new challenge, despite his love for the club. He told Record Sport: “I loved my time with Celtic. It was such a special period, but at the time I was looking for a new challenge.”
He added that the manager, board, and team supported his decision, but acknowledged: “I’m very sad that I may have broken some hearts. However, I’m not retired. I believe there will be a time where we can all meet again. All great things with Celtic.”
Rejected Celtic return
Celtic attempted to re-sign Kyogo on loan in January when Martin O’Neill came calling, but he chose to stay at Birmingham to fight for his place. He later underwent shoulder surgery, ruling him out for the rest of the season.
Kyogo admitted he was flattered by the offer, saying: “I was very happy with the offer at that time. However, at the time, my main priority was to re-establish myself at Birmingham.”
Looking ahead with LA Galaxy
Asked if he regretted leaving Celtic, Kyogo paused and said: “It’s really hard to say because things played out the way they did. However, I’m very excited to get started with LA Galaxy and fully integrate into the team.”
Reflecting on his Celtic career, which included 34 goals in 2022/23 and match-winning braces in two League Cup finals, Kyogo said being compared to Henrik Larsson was “a huge honour.” He added: “I just want to keep scoring goals and be a player that people want to come and see and watch.”
On his favourite memory, he said: “I can’t decide. There are so many great memories with the staff, fans and teammates. It’s really hard to pinpoint one but all of it was very, very special memories for myself.”
Kyogo refused to rule out a future return to Celtic, saying: “I’m not fully retired. I would never put it at a zero per cent chance. As long as I continue playing, only the future will tell.”
