Fondly remembered at Celtic for his goal against Shakhtar Donetsk that helped his team into the round of 16 of the Champions League, Massimo Donati has never forgotten his two years at Parkhead between 2007 and 2009.
The former defensive midfielder often talks about them in interviews in Italy, and his time at Celtic is also why he returned to Scotland to play for Hamilton Academy and St. Mirren towards the back end of his career, having fallen in love with that part of the United Kingdom.
Speaking to Corriere del Veneto, the now Legnago manager was asked about the seven years he lived in Scotland, starting with his transfer to Glasgow.
About his time in Scotland and Celtic, he said: “I feel a connection and I know I didn’t end up there by chance. It’s not normal for a non-high-end player to be called up at 25 by Celtic. I had a great time, they are organised. Things work. It’s cold and it rains a lot but the simplicity of the people warms you up.”
About his memorable goal, he said: “In Italy, many things are quickly forgotten. In Scotland, they don’t forget. The Celtic stadium when the Champions League was on is the most exciting thing you can experience in football.”
The manager was also questioned about his constant quoting of Celtic legend Scott Brown, having played alongside him during his time there.
Donati said: “He was a resounding example of competitiveness, but I also remember Maldini and Costacurta at AC Milan, who were impressive because they trained hard.”
Over the course of his time at Celtic, Donati would go on to make 48 appearances for the club, scoring five goals and assisting another four, never forgetting his time there.
