“That’s what they can record” – Former Celtic star player makes predictions on Celtic’s performance in the Champions League this season with new signings in the Squad.

Celtic FC is gearing up for a pivotal Champions League campaign after the international break, with renewed optimism following a promising start to the season. Brendan Rodgers’ side will face Heart of Midlothian in their next Scottish Premiership match before turning their attention to the Champions League, where they will take on Slovan Bratislava on September 18th. With eight new signings added to the squad, hopes are high that the reigning Scottish champions can make an impact on Europe’s biggest stage.

Celtic’s Champions League group presents both opportunities and challenges. Alongside Slovan Bratislava, they are set to face top European clubs like Borussia Dortmund, Atalanta, and Aston Villa in away fixtures. However, Celtic will be eyeing home matches against RB Leipzig, Club Brugge, and Young Boys as key opportunities to secure valuable points. Additionally, an away trip to Dinamo Zagreb could offer another chance to boost their points tally.

The recent transfer window has been a significant factor in the growing optimism surrounding the team. Former Celtic striker Andy Walker believes that Rodgers’ influence has been instrumental in shaping the club’s summer business, giving them a stronger footing ahead of their European campaign.

Andy Walker’s Take on Celtic’s Summer Business

Speaking on The Go Radio Football Show, Andy Walker praised Celtic’s transfer activity under Brendan Rodgers, emphasizing the manager’s greater authority in the market. Walker noted that Rodgers’ return to Celtic has led to increased spending, a level of financial commitment that he believes was unlikely under previous managers like Ronny Deila, Neil Lennon, or even Ange Postecoglou.

“When you look at the business done in the transfer window, it tells you the weight Brendan Rodgers now carries. I don’t think Celtic would be spending that money with Ronny Deila, Neil Lennon, or maybe not even Ange Postecoglou,” Walker said. “The fact that Brendan’s back for a second time meant the club had to be serious about spending money.”

Celtic’s summer transfer activity included notable additions that have bolstered key areas of the squad. Walker highlighted the excitement and anticipation among Celtic fans, especially as the club prepares for the Champions League. He expressed confidence that Celtic could achieve a respectable points tally in the group stage, predicting they could secure anywhere between 10 and 15 points, which would likely see them through to the knockout rounds or secure further participation in European competition.

“I think they can get more than 10 points,” Walker added, signaling his optimism for the club’s chances in the group stage.

Brendan Rodgers’ Champions League Ambitions

Brendan Rodgers has also been vocal about his ambitions for Celtic in this year’s Champions League. Speaking ahead of the group stage draw, Rodgers stated his goal of leading Celtic into a playoff position, acknowledging the challenge but expressing confidence in the team’s potential.

“For me, I want us to be able to get into a playoff position,” Rodgers said. “I think it’s a balance because you’re playing teams that are at a really high level, but you’ve now got eight games.” This expanded format in the Champions League league phase offers Celtic more opportunities to accumulate points and progress, something that has eluded them in recent European campaigns.

Celtic’s struggles in European competition have been well-documented, with the club often falling short against elite European teams. However, Rodgers’ return, coupled with a strong summer transfer window, has raised expectations that Celtic can finally make significant strides on the continent.

Navigating the Group Stage

Celtic’s group stage draw features a mix of formidable opponents and teams that could provide a more even contest. The Bhoys will need to capitalize on their home fixtures to maximize their chances of advancing. Matches against Slovan Bratislava, Young Boys, and Club Brugge are seen as critical opportunities to secure points, while away trips to Borussia Dortmund, Atalanta, and Aston Villa will present tougher challenges.

Celtic supporters are hopeful that a strong start against Bratislava on September 18th will set the tone for the rest of the group stage. Success in that opening fixture could build momentum and increase the club’s chances of progressing to the knockout stages or at least securing a place in the UEFA Europa League.

While the path ahead is difficult, there is cautious optimism that Celtic can surpass recent European performances and make a deeper run in the competition. Much will depend on how quickly the new signings integrate into the squad and whether Rodgers can continue to get the best out of his players in high-pressure situations.

Conclusion

With Brendan Rodgers at the helm and a series of promising summer signings, Celtic is aiming to make a mark in this year’s Champions League. Andy Walker’s belief in the club’s ability to secure a double-digit points tally in the group stage reflects the growing optimism around the team’s European prospects. However, Celtic will need to navigate a challenging group, balancing tricky away fixtures with winnable home games. If they can rise to the occasion, the Scottish champions could be set for their best European campaign in years.