Godwin ObajePeter Grant Says Nicolas Kuhn’s Celtic Form ‘Grates Me’ – Believes Summer Exit Likely After Cup Final Disappointment
The fallout from Celtic’s shock Scottish Cup final defeat to Aberdeen continues, and one player bearing the brunt of criticism is Nicolas Kuhn. Former Celtic midfielder and coach Peter Grant has spoken candidly about Kuhn’s dip in form and believes the German winger could be on his way out of the club this summer.
After another disappointing performance in the season’s final game at Hampden, questions are being asked not just about Celtic’s tactical approach but also the form and future of certain individuals—Kuhn chief among them. Grant did not mince his words in a recent interview, admitting Kuhn’s current performances “grate” on him and hinting that the club may be ready to part ways with the 24-year-old if a suitable offer comes in.
Celtic’s Dominance Interrupted and Kuhn’s Role Questioned
Celtic have been so dominant in Scottish football in recent years that winning Trebles has almost come to feel like an expectation. Brendan Rodgers’ side was widely tipped to beat Aberdeen at Hampden, particularly after humiliating the Dons in their last few meetings—including a 6-0 thrashing and a 5-0 win. However, Jimmy Thelin’s Aberdeen defied the odds with a spirited performance that ended in a penalty shootout victory, marking their first Scottish Cup triumph in over three decades.
That loss has forced a harsh spotlight onto the Celtic squad, particularly fringe and underperforming players like Kuhn, whose trajectory at the club has declined after a strong start.
Peter Grant’s Blunt Assessment
Speaking on Go Radio, Peter Grant was frank about the challenges Celtic face in the upcoming transfer window. While emphasizing the need to bring in at least four starting-quality players to elevate the squad, Grant noted that the competition for places should also serve as a wake-up call for players like Kuhn.
“Celtic will always attract top talent,” said Grant. “But you also need that internal spark within the squad. The kind that drives players to improve or risk losing their place. That’s why I’m talking about players like Kuhn. If the right offer comes in, I think Celtic will let him go.”
Grant’s comments reveal a belief that Kuhn no longer provides the edge or impact expected from a Celtic winger. He added, “We saw it earlier in the season—he was taking on defenders, being aggressive and creative. But since that Rangers game, where Jefte left one on him, it’s like he’s disappeared. He’s not the same player anymore.”
Comparisons to James Forrest
One of the most pointed aspects of Grant’s criticism was the comparison with Celtic veteran James Forrest. Despite being in the twilight of his career, Forrest delivered an outstanding performance in recent weeks, including during the win at Pittodrie—making Rodgers’ decision to start Kuhn in the cup final all the more questionable.
Grant elaborated: “When Forrest comes on, he’s driving at defenders, creating havoc. That’s what you expect from a winger. But Kuhn? He barely even tried to take on his man. It’s frustrating to watch, especially knowing the talent he has.”
The former Celtic midfielder made it clear that Forrest, even at 32, displayed the qualities that Kuhn lacked—courage, directness, and creativity. Those are non-negotiable attributes for any wide player at a club like Celtic, and Kuhn’s failure to display them has now put his future in serious doubt.
From Bright Start to Uncertain Future
Kuhn arrived at Celtic with high expectations and started the 2024/25 season on fire, thrilling fans with his pace, skill, and confidence. He appeared to be a long-term solution to the wide areas following the departure of Jota, and many expected the former Rapid Wien winger to flourish under Brendan Rodgers.
However, the second half of the season has seen a dramatic downturn in form. While other young players like Yang have also had inconsistencies, Kuhn’s drop-off has been particularly stark. It’s not just that he isn’t scoring or assisting—he’s no longer influencing games at all.
This regression has clearly been noticed internally, with Celtic expected to be active in the winger market this summer. The board and coaching staff reportedly want at least one elite-level winger to come in and challenge for a starting spot. With Kuhn likely to fall further down the pecking order, a departure could suit all parties.
Transfer Outlook: A Summer Exit on the Cards?
Celtic are known to be willing sellers when the price is right. Kuhn, despite his recent form, still has a reputation as a talented attacking player with good European experience. Clubs in the Bundesliga or Austrian Bundesliga may see him as a smart investment, especially if Celtic are willing to listen to offers around the £3–5 million mark.
Grant emphasized this point, saying, “It’s not just about clearing space—it’s about raising the standards. Bringing in a player who pushes everyone else. That’s what sparks a squad. If Kuhn isn’t up for the challenge, it’s best for Celtic to move on.”
Given Celtic’s ambitions of continuing their domestic dominance and improving in Europe, they cannot afford to carry passengers. Every squad member must contribute, and Kuhn’s current output simply doesn’t justify a continued role.
Rodgers Must Make a Call
Brendan Rodgers now has a decision to make. Does he give Kuhn a chance to redeem himself in preseason, or is the writing already on the wall? The signs suggest the latter, especially as Celtic gear up to reshape the squad with Champions League qualification in mind.
The manager will likely demand more dynamism and consistency in the wide areas, attributes that Kuhn has failed to show in the crucial stages of the campaign. Rodgers is expected to work closely with the recruitment team to bring in players capable of starting immediately—not projects or depth options.
If Kuhn isn’t up to that level anymore, his time in Glasgow may be coming to an end.
Final Word
Celtic’s shock defeat in the Scottish Cup final has triggered soul-searching and transfer speculation, and Nicolas Kuhn appears to be one of the first players under scrutiny. While his early-season promise was undeniable, his recent performances have left fans, pundits, and coaches frustrated.
Peter Grant’s passionate comments reflect what many inside Celtic Park may already believe—unless Kuhn can rediscover his form rapidly, he may have played his final game in green and white.
Whether a bid arrives or not, Celtic seem ready to hit reset, and Kuhn might be among the first casualties of that transition.
Godwin Obaje
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