Oliver Burke makes return to Bundasliga to link with ex-Celtic star

The 27-year-old Scotland international arrives from Werder Bremen, where his five goals in the German top flight this season caught the eye of Union’s scouting team. Known for his blistering pace and imposing 6’2” frame, Burke brings experience and a reputation for game-changing moments, particularly in the dying minutes of matches. As reported by Glasgow World, Burke said…

“Union are a special club – honest, combative and loud. That’s exactly what suits me. I want to give it my all here, soak up the energy of the fans and make a difference with the team. The decision to join Union came from my gut feeling, and I had very good talks with the people in charge, which is why I am convinced that this is the right step for me.”

Union Berlin’s director of professional football, Horst Heldt, highlighted Burke’s athleticism as key to the signing.

“Oliver has the profile we were looking for: pace, physicality, and the ability to decide games in tight moments. His energy and determination make him a good fit for us.”

Burke’s career began at Nottingham Forest, where he broke into the senior team as a 17-year-old in 2014. His performances led to a high-profile move to RB Leipzig in 2016. Despite flashes of promise — including a goal in his third Bundesliga match — he returned to England with West Brom after one season.

A loan move to Celtic in 2019 saw him win a domestic double, scoring four goals and providing three assists in 19 appearances. Stints at Deportivo Alavés, Sheffield United, Millwall, and Birmingham City followed, with Burke eventually returning to Germany with Werder Bremen in 2022.

Union Berlin’s announcement noted Burke’s knack for dramatic finishes, including a stunning last-minute winner in a 3–2 comeback over Borussia Dortmund. With 42 appearances for Bremen and 13 caps for Scotland, Burke now looks to revive his Bundesliga form in Berlin — and perhaps write a few more late-match headlines.

On his day Burke can certainly be brilliant both on other occasions he plays like he’s got his boots on wrong feet. Hopefully the good days outweigh the bad for him. He was a player Brendan Rodgers liked while he was at Celtic first time around.

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