In just over two seasons as a professional, Callum Beattie has won the league, played in the ACL2, and earned his first three international caps alongside a trophy. Yet, the Kitchee defender remains hungry for more.
Beattie’s rise has been meteoric. After graduating from university, he made his Hong Kong Premier League debut with HKFC in the 2024/25 season. Despite the club's struggles, the reliable left-back chipped in with three goals—including a memorable strike against Kitchee. That performance caught the eye of the heavyweights, who signed him during their squad rebuild.
"My first target was to play in the HKPL after finishing university. While doing so at HKFC, I was also acquiring my Hong Kong passport. Then the offer from Kitchee came in, and I couldn’t say no to joining the best team in Hong Kong."
The move paid off. Beattie became an indispensable starter, missing just two games last season as Kitchee cruised to the league title.
Despite his club success, his international breakthrough required patience. After a year-long wait, Beattie finally made his debut for Hong Kong, China at Kai Tak Stadium during the ASEAN Challenge Cup.
"It felt amazing," Beattie says. "Putting the kit on with an amazing fanbase in an elite stadium, hearing your name being chanted by thousands is something you can’t comprehend at first, but the feeling inside is amazing. Representing Hong Kong, China was my biggest achievement, not only for myself but for my family."
Known for his versatility, Beattie successfully transitioned from an attacking left-back to a disciplined left center-back in Kitchee's 3-5-2 system last season. "I don’t mind which position I play or if I score; either way, I’m happy to do whatever the coach asks of me," he insists. "As long as the team wins and I have a positive impact."
Looking ahead, Beattie’s targets are clear. "From now on, I’m hoping to help Kitchee in the ACL2 and the league, along with making sure I solidify my spot in the the Hong Kong, China squad."
The original article was published in the matchday program for Kitchee vs HKFC in the Hong Kong Premier League on October 10, 2026.