FC Basel has officially confirmed the Celar transfer in its own podcast - club president David Degen and new technical director Andreas Herrmann explained the details. The 23‑year‑old striker from Croatia is expected to boost the attacking firepower that fell short last season.
Why was Celar signed?
Degen stressed that "just being a Basel player isn’t enough". The team needs more cutting edge, and Celar, who most recently played for NK Osijek, offers exactly that. Herrmann added that the club’s analysis department showed Celar’s style fits perfectly with the pace of wingers like Chris Bedia - even though Bedia was too expensive this summer, he remains a future target.
How does the transfer fit the current squad?
With the season opener against FC Geneva on Saturday, Basel already sits 2nd in the Super League, 3 points, 1W‑0D‑0L and has scored one goal while conceding none (+1 goal difference). Celar adds firepower to an offense that has so far netted only a single goal. The club hopes he can contribute a goal in the first match to improve the tally.
What does this mean for upcoming fixtures?
The next league match is a home game versus FC St. Gallen on 20 September 2026, with St. Gallen currently occupying 9th place. Degen sees the transfer as a key to closing the gap to the league leaders. Herrmann noted that the coaching staff has already crafted a specific training program for Celar to speed up his integration.
What are the long‑term ambitions?
The board aims to bring Basel back to the top of the Super League and remain competitive in European competitions. The Celar deal is a building block in a broader strategy that also includes youth development and infrastructure upgrades. Degen concluded that "fans expect a strong team that excites not only Basel but the whole of Switzerland".
Currently, FC Basel sits 2nd in the Super League with 3 points after the first game (1W‑0D‑0L) and has a 1:0 record. The next fixture is the home match against FC St. Gallen on 20 September 2026.
