In the world of football, where superstition and tradition often intertwine, the choice of a squad number can be more than just a personal preference. For Sebastian Tounekti, the Tunisian winger who joined Celtic for a fee of £5 million, the decision to wear the number 17 holds a deeper significance. In an exclusive interview, Tounekti opens up about the challenges he faced in his first season with the Scottish champions, the reasons behind his squad number change, and his eagerness to prove himself.
A Number with History
"I asked for No 17 last season as well, but they had held it for [Kelechi] Iheanacho,” Tounekti explained. "He came two days after me. I wanted the number because it was one of my first numbers as a professional player. I try to have it at new clubs, but if it's taken, I can do nothing about it. I saw he was not coming back, so I asked Shaun [Maloney] and Fozzy [Mark Fotheringham] and the gaffer if it was possible to have the 17. They said it was no issue at all. I prefer that one."
The number 17 holds a special place in Tounekti's heart, as it was one of his first squad numbers as a professional. This choice is not just a superstition but a connection to his past and a symbol of his journey to Celtic. It's a reminder that even the smallest details can carry significant weight in the lives of athletes.
A Season of Ups and Downs
Tounekti's first season at Celtic was a rollercoaster ride. He joined the club in September for a substantial fee, but the transition to Scottish football proved challenging. "For me, last season was a lot of ups and downs," he admitted. "I got the feeling of the club and the meaning of the club. I'm really positive for the season now and confident I have learned a lot and will do well this season."
The Tunisian winger faced difficulties adjusting to the new league and the high expectations that come with playing for Celtic. However, he found solace in the support of his teammates and the rich history of the club. "Maybe people forget that you don't really know what kind of club you're coming to," he said. "Of course, you know the history and how massive the club is. But you have to be here and feel it to really know the size of the club and the expectations."
A Moment to Remember
One moment stands out in Tounekti's debut season: a magnificent curling effort from range against Kilmarnock that sparked a 3-2 comeback. This win kept Celtic's title hopes alive and encapsulated the resilience and determination that characterized their season. "That win over Kilmarnock encapsulated Celtic’s season," he reflected. "They faced major strife but somehow managed to get the Premiership title over the line, taking it right to the wire. It was quite the baptism of Scottish football fire for Tounekti."
This moment was a turning point for Tounekti, a moment where he truly felt the weight of the club's history and the expectations of its fans. It was a reminder that even in the face of adversity, Celtic has a way of rising to the occasion.
Looking Ahead
As Tounekti prepares for his second season with Celtic, he is eager to build on the experiences of his first year. "For now, though, it’s all about Celtic - and proving that I can produce more moments like my crowning one at Rugby Park six months ago," he said. "I'm ready to show Celtic fans what I'm all about."
With the number 17 on his back and a renewed sense of purpose, Tounekti is poised to make a significant impact in his second season. The challenges of his first year have prepared him for the demands of Scottish football, and he is determined to make the most of his time at Celtic. As he steps onto the pitch, he carries with him the weight of the club's history and the hopes of its fans, ready to write his own chapter in the club's rich legacy.
