Moritz Jenz has confirmed his exit from Celtic with a heartfelt farewell on Instagram.
The central defender, 23, had joined Celtic on a loan in the summer.
The club held the right to sign Jenz permanently but instead his loan stay has been cut short.
Jenz will return to parent club Lorient - but speculation is mounting over another loan-to-buy opportunity, this time in Germany with Schalke.
Confirming his departure, Jenz thanked Celtic supporters, players, staff and manager Ange Postecoglou for his experience in Glasgow.
Jenz wrote: "Dear Celtic family, I’m sad to say that I’m leaving the club after a short time, it’s been for me a fantastic period at the club.
"I‘m very proud and honoured to have been a part of the Celtic Football Club. Like I said at the beginning of my time it was and it has been a dream.
"The fans of Celtic will always have a special place in my heart, they are kind, honest and passionate. I want to thank everyone that works at Celtic, from the staff to the people taking care of us players in the stadium and in the training ground.
"I’m very lucky to have been part of such a fantastic squad of players, it’s really a TEAM and a Family Everyone is fighting for each other to make history for this great Club and I‘m gonna miss them so much!
"A massive thank you to Mr Postecoglu for giving me the opportunity to play for this fantastic club. It has been an honour to work with him and his team.
"Well I guess I have to cut it short now :) Here we go again, I am on the road again.
"Hopefully one day I can come back to see Paradise 🍀❤️"
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