Celtic midfielder Reo Hatate drew widespread attention online following a distinctive warm-up routine captured by broadcasters before his team’s UEFA Europa League league phase match against AS Roma on December 11, 2025, at Celtic Park. The Japanese international’s unusual preparation, involving focused eye movements while tracking his raised fingers, quickly spread across social media, earning amused reactions from supporters and commentators alike.

The 28-year-old stood apart from teammates during the pre-game session, holding both index fingers aloft at eye level and methodically shifting his gaze left, right, up, and down for nearly a minute. This sequence, interpreted by many as a peripheral vision or concentration exercise, transitioned into more conventional sprinting and stretching drills. Footage from TNT Sports highlighted the moment, prompting comparisons to everyday scenarios like scanning a menu or evoking humorous memes.

Despite the lighthearted buzz, Hatate delivered a solid individual display in a challenging evening for Celtic, who suffered a 3-0 defeat to the Italian visitors. Evan Ferguson netted twice for Roma, capitalizing on defensive lapses, including an early own goal. Hatate, deployed in a deeper midfield role alongside captain Callum McGregor under new manager Wilfried Nancy, showed composure in possession and contributed to build-up play, emerging as one of few positives amid the team’s struggles adapting to tactical shifts.

Nancy, in his first European fixture at the helm after succeeding interim boss Martin O’Neill, opted for a 3-4-2-1 formation featuring Kasper Schmeichel in goal, a back three of Auston Trusty, Liam Scales, and Kieran Tierney, and wide roles for Sebastian Tounekti and Yang Hyun-jun. Hatate partnered with Benjamin Nygren in advanced midfield positions supporting lone striker Daizen Maeda. The adjustment aimed to provide balance but exposed vulnerabilities against Roma’s clinical counterattacks led by players like Matías Soulé and Zeki Çelik.

The result marked Nancy’s second consecutive loss since taking charge, following a domestic setback, and left Celtic with work to do in the congested league phase standings. With seven points from six matches, the Scottish side sits outside direct knockout spots but remains in contention for playoff qualification ahead of fixtures against Bologna and Utrecht.

Hatate, a key figure since joining from Kawasaki Frontale in 2022, has been pivotal in Celtic’s domestic success and European campaigns. His technical proficiency, vision, and goal threat—evidenced by joint-top scoring in this season’s Europa League with two strikes—have made him a fan favorite. Transfer speculation persists, but his commitment shone through in a match where others faltered.

Roma, under Gian Piero Gasperini, demonstrated efficiency, extending their strong away form in the competition. The victory propelled them higher in the table, building on a prior win over Rangers.

Social media responses to Hatate’s routine ranged from admiration for its potential benefits in enhancing awareness on the pitch to playful mockery. Fans likened it to “eyeing up the chippy menu” or matrix-like evasion, underscoring the midfielder’s quirky personality that endears him to supporters.

This isn’t the first time Hatate’s preparations have caught notice; similar exercises have appeared sporadically, suggesting a deliberate method to sharpen focus amid high-pressure environments. Sports science increasingly emphasizes vision training for athletes, with drills improving reaction times and spatial awareness—areas where Hatate excels.

Celtic’s performance raised questions about integration under Nancy’s philosophy, with the team appearing disjointed in the first half. A missed penalty by Arne Engels compounded frustrations, but brighter second-half moments, including near misses involving Hatate’s passing, offered glimpses of potential.

Post-match, Nancy acknowledged areas for improvement while praising individual efforts like Hatate’s. The upcoming Scottish League Cup final adds urgency to domestic priorities, balancing European ambitions.

Hatate’s viral moment provided a rare uplifting note on an otherwise disappointing night, highlighting his unique approach in a sport often defined by routines. As Celtic navigate a transitional period, his consistency remains a cornerstone.

The Europa League league phase continues to deliver surprises, with Celtic’s path to progression hinging on upcoming results. Hatate’s contributions, on and off the spotlight, underscore his value to the squad.

Fans eagerly anticipate further displays, ritual included, as the season progresses.