Celtic Ace Sparks Christmas Buzz with Shock Engagement Announcement

Celtic Ace Sparks Christmas Buzz with Shock Engagement Announcement

Celtic midfielder has given supporters an unexpected festive talking point after announcing his engagement to long-term partner Viviana Gonzaga, just days before Christmas.

Celtic midfielder Paulo Bernardo has given supporters an unexpected festive talking point after announcing his engagement to long-term partner Viviana Gonzaga, just days before Christmas.

The Portuguese midfielder shared the joyful news on social media, posting a series of elegant photographs with Gonzaga that quickly caught the attention of fans across the Celtic support. The announcement, made only three days before Christmas, added a personal celebration to an already busy and emotionally charged period in the football calendar.

Bernardo, who has become an increasingly influential figure in Brendan Rodgers’ squad, has enjoyed a strong run of form this season, earning praise for his composure, work rate and growing authority in midfield. Now, off the pitch, the 22-year-old has reached another major milestone, prompting an outpouring of congratulatory messages from teammates, supporters and figures across the game.

The engagement photos, which showed Bernardo and Gonzaga in a relaxed yet glamorous setting, were met with thousands of likes and comments within hours of being posted. Fans were quick to highlight the timing of the announcement, with many describing it as the “perfect Christmas gift” and praising the couple for sharing such a special moment during the festive period.

Online reaction from Celtic supporters was swift and enthusiastic.

🗣️ @HoopsForever67 wrote: “What a week for Paulo on and off the pitch. Playing like a man in love. Congratulations to him and Viviana.”

🗣️ Sean McLeod, posting on X, said: “This lad has settled into Celtic life perfectly. Now engaged before Christmas. Living the dream.”

🗣️ @GreenBrigadeView added: “Engaged, in form and wearing the hoops. Love to see our players happy off the park.”

🗣️ Liam O’Donnell commented: “Viviana looks class. Paulo’s winning everywhere just now.”

🗣️ @CelticPulse posted: “From midfield battles to wedding bells. Congrats Bernardo.”

Bernardo has largely kept his private life away from the spotlight since arriving at Celtic, choosing instead to let his football do the talking. However, his relationship with Gonzaga has occasionally drawn attention from supporters, particularly during high-profile matches when she has been spotted cheering him on from the stands. Her growing popularity among fans has seen her labelled by some as one of the club’s most glamorous WAGs.

On the pitch, Bernardo’s season has mirrored Celtic’s push for domestic dominance. Since cementing his place in the starting line-up, the midfielder has delivered a series of assured performances, combining technical quality with tactical discipline. Rodgers has repeatedly spoken about Bernardo’s intelligence and adaptability, qualities that have made him a valuable asset in key fixtures both domestically and in Europe.

The timing of the engagement announcement also reflects the calm confidence surrounding Bernardo’s current form. With Celtic navigating a demanding run of fixtures across competitions, the midfielder appears settled both professionally and personally, a balance often credited as vital to consistency at the top level.

Supporters online were quick to draw connections between Bernardo’s performances and his off-field happiness.

🗣️ @ParkheadPaul joked: “Explains the energy lately. Love gives you legs.”

🗣️ Michael Kerr added: “You can tell he’s enjoying his football. Now this news. Brilliant to see.”

Inside the club, the mood has reportedly been warm and supportive. Teammates were among the first to respond publicly, offering congratulations and festive emojis, while club staff are understood to have passed on their best wishes privately. Though Celtic did not issue an official statement, the news has been widely shared across fan platforms and supporter media.

For Gonzaga, the announcement marks a new chapter in a relationship that has quietly grown alongside Bernardo’s rise in Scottish football. Known for her stylish presence and low-key public profile, she has been praised by fans for maintaining a sense of normality despite increased attention.

As Christmas approaches, the engagement adds a human dimension to a period often dominated by results, injuries and league tables. For Bernardo, it is a reminder that even amid the pressures of professional football, life’s biggest moments can arrive unexpectedly.

Celtic return to action shortly after the festive break, with Bernardo expected to play a key role as the club aim to maintain momentum at the top of the table. For now, though, the headlines belong to a different kind of success story one that has united supporters in celebration