Celtic claimed the Scottish Premiership for the 12th time in the last 13 seasons in 2023/24, continuing their dominance in the competition.
Brendan Rodgers’ side only lost three games throughout the league season, scoring the most goals and conceding the least.
Celtic also claimed the Scottish Cup with a 1-0 victory over arch-rivals Rangers in the final. However, despite winning the domestic double, there is a sense of unfulfillment around the club.
The Hoops crashed out of the Champions League at the group stage, finishing last in a group containing Atletico Madrid, Lazio and Feyenoord.
Celtic’s only points came courtesy of a draw against Atletico in Glasgow and the final-day win over Feyenoord. Poor performances in the Champions League have become the norm.
Before their meaningless victory over Feyenoord on the final matchday, the last time Celtic won a game at home in the Champions League was in 2013 against Ajax.
However, it was the only victory for the club in an equally abysmal European campaign. Celtic also finished last in the group that season.
Read on as we assess why Celtic must prioritise improvement in the Champions League next term.
European Prestige & Fan Expectations
Celtic are one of the most successful clubs in the history of world football. They have won over 150 trophies, including a European Cup. They were the first British team to win one.
The Lisbon Lions’ legendary 1967 European Cup victory over Inter Milan remains a source of pride. Celtic’s European pedigree is undeniable.
Their achievements have helped them build a solid fanbase in Scotland and the Republic of Ireland, where many of their fans originally came from.
Supporters still based on the Emerald Isle follow their exploits with interest, and many of them wager on Celtic matches throughout the season.
All of the popular Irish betting sites are inundated with wagers whenever Celtic play, particularly when they feature in European competitions.
However, recent Champions League campaigns have been a costly affair for Celtic bettors. The club has consistently qualified for Europe’s elite competition, but their performances have been poor.
They have suffered consistent group stage exits, leaving fans yearning for a return to the knockout phase – a stage where Celtic haven’t featured since 2013.
The Champions League provides a platform for Celtic to showcase their talent and compete against the world’s best.
Failure to do so breeds frustration among supporters, who are desperate for the excitement and prestige of deep Champions League runs.
The Financial Imperative
The financial windfall from competing in the Champions League is massively important for the club’s ongoing sustainability.
Participation guarantees a major payout, and there are additional bonuses for progression to the knockout stage. Deeper runs mean more lucrative television income and higher prize money.
This financial boost will allow Celtic to compete in the transfer market for better players – a crucial element for success on domestic and European fronts.
Missing out on these benefits weakens Celtic’s overall financial muscle. The gap between them and wealthier European clubs widens, making it harder to attract top players and compete for domestic supremacy against Rangers.
Recruitment Must Bring Improvement
Celtic must be brave in the summer transfer window by targeting Champions League calibre players to help them compete with Europe’s best.
One area they will be keen to reinforce is in goal, with former England number one Joe Hart retiring at the end of last season.
The club has shied away from Liverpool’s £20 million valuation of Caoimhin Kelleher, but he is the sort of pedigree of player they should be signing.
The Irish goalkeeper is an excellent shot-stopper who should be a starting goalie somewhere, and Celtic must do everything within their power to secure his signature.
Another area Rodgers will be keen to improve is the centre-forward position. Adam Idah has returned to Norwich City after a successful loan spell at Parkhead, forcing the club back into the market for a striker.
After struggling with the Canaries for the first half of last season, the Irish international joined Celtic on loan and scored several clutch goals to help the club clinch the league and cup double.
Celtic will need to cough up the £8m fee for Idah, who Rodgers is keen on signing permanently, or enter the market for a cheaper alternative.