We need to talk about Kuhn

The German has been off form but some fans need to calm down

By Jase Bannerman

Let’s talk honestly about Nicolas Kuhn. Nobody’s arguing that he’s flying at the moment—by his own high standards, his form has clearly dipped. But some of the reactions I’ve seen online and heard in the stands lately feel way over the top.

It wasn’t so long ago Kuhn was our golden Bhoy, terrorising defenders and winning matches almost single-handedly. His touch was magic, his confidence sky-high, and supporters sang his name as if he were the second coming of Henrik. So yes, right now it feels frustrating seeing him struggle to recapture that brilliance. His recent performances haven’t matched the player we know he can be, and he’d probably admit that himself.

But let’s take a step back here. All players go through rough spells—especially creative ones who rely heavily on rhythm, confidence, and momentum. Form is temporary, as the cliché rightly goes. Kuhn hasn’t suddenly become a bad player overnight; football doesn’t work like that. He’s still trying things, still putting himself out there, and frankly, it’s not effort he’s lacking—just that bit of luck, that final touch, that split-second decision-making.

Some reactions, though, make you wonder if supporters genuinely expect perfection every week. The criticism online borders on hysterical at times, as if Kuhn is somehow deliberately letting us down. Remember, this is a guy who’s given us plenty to cheer about. It’s perfectly fine to point out his form and expect more, but it’s unfair to turn on him as quickly as some have.

The best players at this club have had their ups and downs. Even Larsson had rough patches—though nostalgia conveniently erases those from memory. Fans back then didn’t turn their backs or launch into over-the-top criticisms. They encouraged, supported, and trusted him to find his way back to form.

And that’s exactly what Kuhn needs right now—a bit of patience and support. He needs fans who’ll sing louder, who’ll remind him why playing for Celtic is special. If we believe in him, he’ll believe in himself. The ability is still there; it hasn’t vanished. He’s not forgotten how to play football.

I understand frustration—I share it—but I refuse to jump aboard this bandwagon of negativity. Celtic fans are better than knee-jerk reactions, especially towards a player who has already proven his quality. Kuhn will come good again. I’m confident of it. And when he does, some of the same fans criticising him now will be claiming they backed him all along.

Let’s show some perspective, a bit of patience, and give Kuhn the backing he deserves. He’s earned at least that much.