Celtic begin the 2025–26 season with expectations soaring among supporters across Scotland and beyond. Brendan Rodgers’ side, fresh from adding yet another Scottish Premiership title to their collection, enter their 132nd campaign facing a mix of continuity, fresh arrivals, and renewed ambition. The club’s focus remains on domestic dominance, but the hunger for a breakthrough in Europe, plus the evolution of the squad, has ensured a summer rich in news and talking points.
A Glance Back: Trophies and Close Calls
Last season was triumphant for Celtic in key respects. Under Rodgers’ leadership, they secured the Scottish Premiership with 92 points, a commanding 17 above rivals Rangers. It marked their fourth straight league title, a record-equalling 55th top-flight crown. Rodgers also steered the team to Scottish League Cup success, though a domestic treble proved elusive after a dramatic penalty defeat to Aberdeen in the Scottish Cup final. European progress was notable, with the Hoops making the Champions League knockout stage for the first time since 2012–13. They went toe-to-toe with Bayern Munich before losing 3-2 on aggregate in the knockout playoff round.
Changing Faces: Summer Transfer Activity
Rodgers’ summer focus has been clear: ensure the squad remains fresh and competitive while continuing to build for the future. The highest-profile piece of business was the return of Kieran Tierney. After leaving Arsenal, the Scotland international arrived back at Parkhead on a free, bringing quality and leadership to the defensive line. Japanese defender Hayato Inamura has also joined, costing £250,000, while winger Benjamin Nygren’s £2million move from Nordsjaelland adds further threat out wide. Shin Yamada, a forward signed from Kawasaki Frontale for £1.5million, is another exciting addition who could become a key figure in attack. Backup options have been reinforced as well, with Ross Doohan arriving from Aberdeen and Callum Osmand from Fulham U21, both on frees. Jahmai Simpson-Pusey joined on loan from Manchester City.
On the outgoing list, bigger fees have helped balance the books. Nicolas Kuhn’s £16.5million move to Como in Serie A was the major story of the Celtic summer. Gustaf Lagerbielke fetched £2.2million from Braga, while long-serving Scott Bain joined Falkirk on a free. Greg Taylor left for PAOK, and other departures—including Kwon Hyeok-kyu, Daniel Cummings, and a series of loans—have helped slim the squad ahead of a busy campaign.
Overall, Celtic spent around £3.75million this window and earned over £18.7million, resulting in a healthy net positive and financial flexibility for late-window business or future investments.
New Deals and Squad Developments
Behind the scenes, continuity is also a focus. Young defender Dane Murray penned a new deal with the club and immediately celebrated by scoring his first senior goal. Rodgers remains “hopeful” of adding at least one more player before the Champions League play-off begins, underlining a desire to blend youth, experience, and hunger for further silverware.
Getting Off the Mark: Early Season Form
Celtic have started the season brightly. A 1–0 home victory over St Mirren and a 2–0 win against Aberdeen away confirmed their early intent in the Premiership, with goals from Luke McCowan, Benjamin Nygren, and Reo Hatate sparking confidence. In the League Cup, the defending champions knocked out Falkirk 4–1, with goals from Maeda, Johnston, and Murray, plus an own-goal after relentless pressure. These results suggest the new signings are settling in and that Rodgers’ rotation is already paying off.
Looking ahead, Celtic’s run of fixtures grows in intensity. Livingston visit Parkhead before the Glasgow giants take on Rangers at Ibrox in early September. Europe is also calling, with a Champions League play-off tie against Kairat next on the horizon—a key test for the updated squad.
Reflection and Ambition: Rodgers’ Perspective
While form is promising, Rodgers is urging his players to push higher. He admits disappointment over losing the chance for a treble last season but insists the “sky is the limit” for his revitalised side. The manager highlighted adaptability and energy across the squad—especially with veterans like Tierney returning and younger players eager to seize their opportunity.
Supporters share the sense that Celtic’s main target must remain a successful European campaign. The Champions League is the main goal after four years of Scottish dominance. With the financial boost of player sales and a mix of experienced leaders and new arrivals, Celtic appear well-placed to challenge on all fronts this term.
Conclusion:
Celtic enter 2025–26 as overwhelming favourites to retain their Scottish Premiership title. The club’s clever recruitment, disciplined finances, and proven leadership have established a robust platform for further success. With impressive results, ambitious targets, and newsworthy transfer moves, Brendan Rodgers’ men have given fans every reason to believe this season could deliver more silverware—and perhaps that elusive European breakthrough.
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