Michel-Ange Balikwisha has blamed Celtic and Martin O’Neill’s decisions earlier this year for missing out on the World Cup.
Celtic wanted to sign the Belgium-born DR Congo international in 2024 and in January 2025. The Scottish champions failed on both occasions before succeeding in August 2025.
Brendan Rodgers was then in charge at Celtic Park, and the winger featured regularly under his orders. He managed two assists from nine matches before the manager left Celtic in October 2025.
Since his exit, the 25-year-old struggled for a prominent role at Celtic, playing only five more matches. Therefore, he left O’Neill’s side to join KAA Gent on loan in the summer window.
Balikwisha blames O’Neill for Celtic struggles
Last month, the attacker said he’s happy to have left Martin O’Neill’s and returned to the Jupiler Pro League. The Celtic owned player has one goal from six matches for Gent. His only goal was against Zulte Waregem last weekend.
He spoke to Het Nieuwsblad to discuss his start at the Belgian club, time at Celtic and the disappointment of missing out on the World Cup.
Michel-Ange Balikwisha, who represented DR Congo at the last AFCON, didn’t make it to the World Cup because of his struggles in Glasgow. He was aware O’Neill wasn’t counting on him after returning to Celtic from AFCON.
He said: “I played in AFCON with Congo. When I returned, Nancy was gone again, and Celtic started a catch-up race. Martin O’Neill didn’t want to touch his team anymore (and became champion after a bad start). It was as if I was paying the price for being away. I wasn’t the only one who wasn’t playing anymore.”
O’Neill and Celtic blamed over WC dream
Earlier this year, Michel-Ange Balikwisha had an opportunity to go out on loan to the MLS. He wanted this to enjoy regular minutes, which was needed to fulfil his childhood dream of playing in the World Cup. However, Martin O’Neill’s side refused to sanction a move.
“But ultimately, Celtic refused that loan. I knew right away that the World Cup was out of the question,” Balikwisha explained.
“That hurt because I had contributed to the qualification with Congo. I could only accept it. Life doesn’t stop, you know. There will be more chances at a World Cup.”
The attacker opened up on his family’s struggles in Glasgow, which also impacted his time at Celtic.
“My girlfriend and little daughters were having a hard time, too. If they are unhappy, so am I,” he added.
“Fortunately, a club that pays well offers the option to send them on vacation, or to family. So that at least they were happy. I would rather have sat there alone.”
Gent have an option to make his stay permanent. If the clause isn’t exercised, the player will certainly look for a new club next summer as his comments indicate he has no plans to return to Celtic.
