Celtic bowed out of the Europa League despite securing a 1–0 victory over Stuttgart on the night, as the German side progressed 4–2 on aggregate following their dominant first-leg performance. But while the Scottish champions exited with pride after a spirited display, it was Stuttgart manager Sebastian Hoeneß who stole the headlines with a brutally candid post-match comment aimed at Celtic’s goalscorer.

Luke McCowan stunned the visitors inside the opening minute, firing Celtic ahead after just 60 seconds to ignite belief around a potential comeback. The early strike sent Celtic Park into eruption and briefly raised hopes of overturning the 4–1 deficit suffered in Germany.

However, despite waves of pressure and a determined second-half performance, Celtic could not find the additional goals required to force extra time. Stuttgart remained composed defensively, managing the tempo and closing down spaces effectively to ensure their place in the round of 16.

The tie seemed destined to be remembered as a valiant but insufficient effort from Celtic — until Hoeneß delivered what many are already calling the “coldest interview of the season.”

Speaking to reporters, the Stuttgart boss made a pointed remark about McCowan’s future.

“You are 28 years old, your team just dropped out of the Europa League — of course you will think about leaving for a better club,” Hoeneß said. “Players at that age want to compete at the highest level. That is natural. We are going through.”

The comments immediately sparked controversy, with Celtic supporters accusing the German coach of disrespect and of attempting to unsettle one of their key players.

Hoeneß went further, suggesting Stuttgart’s ambition and European continuity make them an attractive destination.

“When you see the difference over two legs, you understand levels. We scored four in the first leg. Tonight they won, yes, but qualification is what matters. Players want that.”

McCowan, who gave everything in Celtic’s attempt to overturn the deficit, did not respond publicly to the remarks. The midfielder was one of the standout performers across both legs, and his early goal on the night had briefly reignited hopes of a historic turnaround.

For Celtic, the result brings mixed emotions — pride in the home victory, frustration at the heavy first-leg damage, and now fresh speculation over the future of one of their key contributors.

As Stuttgart march into the Europa League round of 16, the fallout from Hoeneß’s remarks may linger longer than the tie itself. What was meant to be a night of professional progression for the Bundesliga side has quickly turned into a war of words — and possibly the opening chapter of a transfer saga few in Glasgow were expecting.