Ex Celtic star Giorgos Giakoumakis reveals one thing he 'hated' about MLS

Giorgos Giakoumakis has revealed the one thing he hated about playing in MLS - and it was a stark contrast to what he was used to at Celtic.

The Greek striker quit the champions for Atlanta United in February 2023 after just under two years at Glasgow in which he played second fiddle to Kyogo but still made a big contribution. He lasted an even shorter time in the States and has just recently signed for Mexican top flight side Cruz Azul, with the American's making a huge profit.

Moving to the Mexican league, especially after such a short spell at Atlanta, probably raised a few eyebrows but Giakoumakis has been explaining some of the reasons behind his decision. As well as the pitch Cruz Azul chiefs made, there was one factor about MLS that played a part too.

The 29-year-old felt there wasn't enough pressure in the States and it was seen as 'okay' to lose some games. That would be very different to what he experienced at the Hoops, and he reckons he'll be moving back to an environment where you're expected to win every single game.

Speaking about his transfer, he said: "I was really excited; I really wanted to make it happen, and Cruz Azul showed me how much they wanted me, and that was a crucial factor for me to make my decision.

“Cruz Azul, for me, is a team that I think is a level higher than MLS. It is a team that is chasing records, chasing trophies and they try to win always, every single trophy.

"I love to work and play for these teams because the expectations are high, the motivation has to be always there and it’s not okay to lose. Sometimes, that’s a bad thing in the MLS. It’s okay to lose some games, and I hate it.”