Gustaf Lagerbijk is rapidly rebuilding his reputation after leaving Celtic, being praised for the consistency and authority of his performances in Portugal.
according to gameThe Swedish centre-back is on track to reach 40 appearances in his first season at Braga, underlining how important he has become to his current team. The report describes him as a "royal protector", highlighting the level of status he has reached since then moving on from celtic.
Lagerbilke arrived in Portugal after stints at Celtic and FC Twente. While his time in Scotland offered exposure at a major European club, the move south gave him regular minutes which helped stabilize his development.
This season he has emerged as one of the most used players in the team. He operates as a central man in a three-man defense and has quickly become a pillar of the team's structure. His calm delivery – both short and long – and his defensive solidity have made him one of the manager's most reliable options.
The 25-year-old has also provided decisive moments since leaving Celtic. Earlier in the campaign he played a key role in the win over Sporting. In stoppage time, he was fouled inside the penalty area, allowing Rodrigo Zalazar to convert the winning spot-kick.
Beyond defensive work, Lagerbilke remains a threat from set pieces. His aerial ability and physical presence make him a regular target during corners and wide free-kicks.
Swedish perspective on their development
Former Braga striker Stefan Schwarz Eskilsson, who follows the Portuguese league closely, recently watched Lagerbijk in action and came away impressed.
"I watched some of their games because I also watch Braga matches," he said. “I was also at the stadium for the derby against Vitória Guimaraes.”
From what he's seen, the Swedish defender has made clear steps forward since leaving Celtic.
"I saw a solid and steady performance. He's a great defender who doesn't make mistakes. He's very secure in his game." Eskilson said.
The former striker also highlighted the physical and tactical qualities that define Lagerbilke's style.
"He adds the physical component – he's very tall, physical and aggressive. But he reads the game very well. He's an intelligent player."
what happens next
Lagerbijk's consistent performances have also helped him earn a place in the Sweden national team, where competition for centre-back places remains strong.
Eskilstuna believes the defender's trajectory since leaving Celtic shows the value of playing regularly at a high level. And Lagerbilke himself enjoying life in portugal.
“He has improved compared to last season and is now playing in a better league than the Netherlands and Scotland.” He said.
With 39 appearances already this season, the Swedish defender looks set to keep the momentum going - and his post-Celtic chapter is starting to look like the most stable period of his career so far.
