Football Season Guide

Celtic

In


Mohamed Elyounoussi (mid) Southampton

Out


Eboue Kouassi (mid) Genk; Jonny Hayes (mid) Aberdeen; Craig Gordon (gk) Hearts; Calvin Miller (def) free; Jozo Simunovic (def) free.

Celtic won the league at a canter, 13 points ahead of Rangers when the pandemic ended the season. Odsonne Édouard led a rampant attack, while depth in midfield and defence allowed the club to progress in cups as well as dominating the league. Their European campaign was mixed, qualifying from a tough group stage including Lazio and Rennes before a disappointing defeat to Copenhagen, collapsing at home after an away draw. They won the League Cup after beating Rangers in the final and will face their rivals again in the Scottish Cup semi-final, postponed from last season due to COVID. Celtic have failed to make any signings in the off season, except for renewing the loan of Mohamed Elyounoussi. With a number of squad players departing, the squad is definitely weaker. More signings can be expected before the transfer window closes in October. Celtic have good cash reserves after recent successes and player sales and a new keeper is likely to arrive, with Fraser Forster seemingly not returning. It will take something special to knock the Hoops off top spot. But the pressure is on Celtic to push on in cup competitions and go one step further in Europe.

Target


With Celtic still ahead of Rangers by some distance, winning the league goes without saying. At least one other trophy should be expected too.