Caitlin Hayes admitted that it had been "one of the greatest honours of her life" to represent Celtic as she sealed a transfer away from the club.
Hayes, 29, leaves Celtic after four-and-a-half successful years, signing with Women’s Super League side Brighton & Hove Albion for an undisclosed fee.
The Republic of Ireland international joined Celtic ahead of the 2020/21 season, fulfilling her dream of playing for her childhood club.
During her time with the Hoops, she became a key player, making 153 appearances and scoring 40 goals, helping the team achieve several significant milestones including their first ever Scottish Women's Premier League title in May 2024.
Hayes played a key role in Celtic's consecutive Scottish Women’s Cup wins in 2021/22 and 2022/23, scoring the decisive goal in the 2021/22 final against Glasgow City.
She also helped the team qualify for the UEFA Women’s Champions League group stages for the first time in 2024/25.
"It has been nothing short of one of the greatest honours of my life to wear the green and white," Hayes said upon her departure.
"My nine-year-old self would never have believed that her wildest dreams would become her reality. But I guess, after all, I was just a ghirl with a dream and a fan that got lucky."
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Celtic head coach Elena Sadiku added: “I want to thank Caitlin for everything she has done for the club, the fans and the team, overall, throughout her years here.
“But especially since I have come to Glasgow, she has been very important for the team on the pitch.
“She has been a great character. She is taking the step now to the Women’s Super League, with a great time like Brighton.
“She is achieving one of her dreams, which I’m always going to support my players to achieve their dreams and try to reach their full potential.
"We all wish her the very best of luck with everything, both in her career and in life, and hopefully one day we can see her back at Celtic."
