Real Madrid legend makes sensational Celtic claim

Celtic will face the daunting task of taking on Real Madrid in their opening game in the UEFA Champions League this season. It is the grandest return possible to Europe’s elite competition after so many years and the Hoops must be determined to make an impression. And what better way to do that than by handing the reigning and 14-time European champions a defeat.

Parkhead is expected to be rocking on the day and Celtic must be confident of their chances as well, after getting a 4-0 win over the Rangers at the weekend.

Yes, Real Madrid have some tremendous players in their ranks like Karim Benzema, Luka Modric, Toni Kroos, Vinicius Junior amongst many others and have to be considered as heavy favourites going into the match, but the Hoops are no strangers to causing an upset here and there.

In fact, Real Madrid legend, Steven McManaman, who won two UEFA Champions League titles during his time with the club, remarked how he would not be surprised if the Hoops did manage to get something out of the game against his former side and they might even qualify out of their group. As reported by the Daily Record, he told the Scottish Daily Mail:

"“I wouldn’t think it would be much of a shock. I think Celtic could easily get something out of the game [against Real Madrid].“Real Madrid sometimes start this type of competition slowly. They always qualify from the group, but they can start slowly. Tuesday is the perfect opportunity. First game of the Champions League, the noise of Celtic Park.“Real always concede goals. We saw it last year against better opposition but they like to run forward, which can leave them open. I think it will be a close game and I would be quietly confident about Celtic qualifying alongside Real Madrid.”"

Former Real Madrid star gives Celtic their chance

It is safe to say that with the style of football that Celtic are playing under the management of Ange Postecoglou, they are capable of giving a scare to any team in Europe.

On the other hand, Real Madrid are a team who have struggled to keep clean sheets in recent times and that could end up working against them at Parkhead, with Celtic scoring for fun at the moment.

Once again, Real Madrid will have to be considered as the favourites, based on the huge amount of talent that they have in their squad. But it would be a big mistake to count Celtic out before a ball is kicked.