The Celtic board has been subjected to heavy criticism from fans regarding their recent decision-making – pursuing too many projects without securing enough players ready for first-team action.
With a recent turnover of £120m and £67.3m in bank reserves, they have significant advantages over a struggling Rangers. This doesn’t even take into account the guaranteed windfall of approximately £40m from the revamped Champions League.
Rangers, on the other hand, must navigate two challenging matchups to access that lucrative opportunity, facing tough odds.
Privately, Rangers might envy Celtic’s approach to player trading. Over the past twelve years, Celtic has garnered transfer fees exceeding £170m. Notably, they have profited over £80m from players like Fraser Forster, Virgil van Dijk, Stuart Armstrong, Moussa Dembele, Kristoffer Ajer, Odsonne Edouard, Jeremie Frimpong, and Jota.
While they have certainly invested in some less successful acquisitions, their overall business model has proven strong.
Now, with their current dominance domestically, both Rodgers and the fans are urging the board to demonstrate greater ambition in the market. If not now, then when?
Unless Rodgers were to literally brand the phrase ‘speculate to accumulate’ on his forehead, he couldn’t be clearer about his desires for future signings.
They are prepared to spend, but will they do so wisely? And how bold will they be in their choices?
On the domestic front, Celtic is capable of clinching a fourth consecutive title with the current squad. However, insularity can hinder progress. If beating Rangers is the sole focus, it indicates a comfort zone that Rodgers is keen to avoid.
The upcoming month before the transfer window closes is a prime opportunity for Celtic to recruit players (no one is expecting superstars) that can extend their lead over their city rivals and enhance their European performance, which has been disappointingly lackluster for far too long.
With the new Champions League format featuring more games and a single 36-team group, Celtic may have a few more favorable matches. But what truly constitutes a winnable game in Celtic’s European realm?
Under Rodgers, they have played 19 group matches in the Champions League, achieving two wins, four draws, and twelve losses, with a total score of 15 goals while conceding 49. From a possible 54 points, they have earned just 10.
For a club that prides itself on its European heritage, it is high time to add some new, uplifting chapters to their story.
This goal centers on enhancing the team, not merely with Rangers in mind. Celtic is all but guaranteed to win the Premiership, likely by a significant margin, but the pressing question remains: what else will they achieve?
