JUST IN – Kyogo Furuhashi back to Celtic..

There have been few bigger disappointments in this season’s Championship than Kyogo Furuhashi, and as time goes on, it’s becoming impossible to overlook.

When the 31-year-old joined Birmingham City last summer, it was seen as a major statement of intent — a proven striker brought in to spearhead a push for Premier League promotion. Expectations were high, and understandably so.

Those expectations weren’t built on hype alone.

Kyogo had established himself as one of the most clinical forwards in Scotland during his time at Celtic. He claimed the Golden Boot in the 2022/23 season and continued his strong scoring form the following year, earning a move to French side Rennes.

However, things began to go off track in France.

Game time was limited, rhythm was hard to find, and when Birmingham made a significant investment to sign him, it looked like the perfect opportunity to revive his career.

Early signs were promising.

His movement remained sharp, his positioning intelligent, and he still managed to get into dangerous areas. But one persistent issue stood out — his finishing lacked its usual edge.

As the season wore on, that problem only became more pronounced.

Missed chances started to take a toll, his confidence dipped, and opportunities became fewer. Now, as the campaign approaches its decisive stage, he is no longer a regular starter.

At times, he hasn’t even made the matchday squad.

For a player expected to lead the line, that represents a dramatic decline.

The statistics underline the struggle. Since leaving Celtic, he has managed just three goals in 14 months — a stark contrast to his previous form.

There was movement behind the scenes in January, with interest from other Championship sides and even discussions about a potential return to Celtic. The club reportedly explored a loan deal early in the window, but it never materialized, as Kyogo chose to stay and fight for his place at Birmingham.

At the time, that decision seemed reasonable.

But in hindsight, it hasn’t delivered the desired outcome.

He has found it difficult to regain a foothold in the team, and with the season nearing its end, a departure now appears increasingly likely.

Looking ahead, a return to Celtic may be the most sensible option.

At this stage in his career, Kyogo cannot afford another move that doesn’t work out. Celtic offers familiarity — a system that suits him, a club where he thrived, and an environment in which he consistently performed at a high level.

Another fresh start elsewhere would come with risks, and time is no longer a luxury he has.

From Birmingham’s perspective, they will aim to recoup as much of their investment as possible. However, given his current situation, they may need to adjust their expectations.

That could open the door.

For Celtic, it presents an opportunity to bring back a proven performer. For Kyogo, it could be the reset he needs to revive his career.

Because at this point, this is more than just a dip in form.

It feels like a defining moment.