Celtic’s promising young midfielder, Odin Thiago Holm, is set to take on a new challenge in Major League Soccer, joining LA FC on loan. The 21-year-old Norwegian will team up with seasoned French stars Olivier Giroud and Hugo Lloris at the Los Angeles-based club. Holm, who has struggled to secure a consistent spot in Celtic’s lineup this season, hopes to rejuvenate his career in the United States. Pending visa approval, he is expected to join the squad for preseason preparations ahead of the MLS campaign kicking off in March.
LA FC’s Scottish technical director, Neil McGuinness, who previously worked as a talent scout for Celtic, expressed confidence in Holm’s abilities. Speaking to Record Sport, McGuinness highlighted the midfielder’s technical prowess, sharp reading of the game, and versatility under pressure. “He’s a very talented player who, for one reason or another, hasn’t had the opportunity to show his full potential at Celtic,” McGuinness shared. He believes that Holm’s time in MLS could reignite his trajectory, giving him a full preseason to integrate and prove his value.
Holm joined Celtic from Norwegian club Valerenga in the summer of 2023 for £2 million, but injuries disrupted his progress. A knock late in the season sidelined him, causing him to miss a critical portion of preseason training. Despite these setbacks, Holm remains tied to a Celtic contract until 2028, leaving room for a potential return to the Scottish Premiership after his stint in MLS.
In another loan move, Celtic’s Luis Palma is set to join Spanish La Liga side Rayo Vallecano. The 24-year-old forward played a crucial role in Celtic’s domestic success last season but has found game time limited this campaign. Signed for approximately £3 million, Palma will stay with Rayo Vallecano until the end of the current season, offering him a chance to make an impact in one of Europe’s top leagues.
These moves underline Celtic’s strategy to provide their young and fringe players with opportunities to develop and gain valuable experience elsewhere. For Holm and Palma, these loan spells represent fresh beginnings and the possibility of returning stronger to their parent club. With MLS and La Liga offering new challenges, both players will be keen to make the most of these opportunities.