It feels like the Celtic board have put Brendan Rodgers' team in a position where they are starting off the 25/26 campaign on the back foot. Yes, they already hold a lead over the Rangers in the Premiership, but it was not a convincing performance or result from the Hoops on Flag Day. Let's hope that things improve moving forward.
Over the summer transfer window, Celtic have moved at a glacial pace. On the other hand, it does feel like the Rangers have improved with their deals. It would be a mistake to take them lightly. The Hoops need to strengthen, but one can only wonder what the board will do.
The mood around the Celtic fanbase is not great right now, let's just say that. And it will be further worsened by the latest announcement from the SPFL.
According to their official website, the SPFL has confirmed that Celtic have been found to be in breach of their rules following the behaviour of the club’s supporters in a game towards the end of the 2024/25 campaign. This has to do with the pyrotechnic displays before and during the final Premiership matchup against St Mirren, as the Hoops were crowned champions of Scotland for the fourth-straight time. Fellow Scottish clubs, Aberdeen and Partick Thistle, have also been handed sanctions.
SPFL make announcement regarding Celtic that fans won't like
The SPFL have confirmed the punishment that has been handed to Celtic. The announcement goes on to state:
"A suspended reduction of 200 tickets in the area of the stadium where the display took place for one future match in SPFL competitions at Celtic Park, to be triggered in the event of another breach of SPFL Rules H36 and/or H37 through pyrotechnic use by supporters of the Club in that area of the stadium in any SPFL competition on, or before, 30 June 2026."
So, the positive is that it is a suspended punishment. It will only go into effect if the problem is repeated before July of next year.
To be very honest, this is an issue that Celtic have faced quite often in recent years, not only in domestic competitions but also during games in Europe. This is something that they need to find an answer to, and as soon as possible. And in this instance, it is up to the supporters to get things right in the future.