Sport Nation 2Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has had the luxury of working with a strong and versatile squad this season, which has allowed his side to perform impressively in both domestic and European competitions. With Celtic sitting at the top of the Scottish Premiership, having won all seven of their matches, and having secured one win from two games in the Champions League, Rodgers’ team is in excellent form.
As the Bhoys prepare to face Aberdeen in a top-of-the-table clash this weekend, all eyes will be on the potential line-up that Rodgers might select. Both Celtic and Aberdeen are unbeaten in the league, making this an exciting and crucial game in the race for the title. With so many standout performers in the squad, choosing the strongest starting XI is no easy task, but there are several players who have cemented their places in the team so far this season.
The Best Celtic XI of the Season So Far
Starting with the goalkeeper position, it’s hard to look past Kasper Schmeichel. Since joining Celtic in the summer, the veteran Danish international has kept six clean sheets in all competitions. His experience and leadership have been invaluable, and while backup goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo hasn’t had the opportunity to make a competitive appearance, Schmeichel’s performances have more than justified his selection.
On the right side of defense, Alistair Johnston has been a revelation. The Canadian international has been in sensational form, contributing two goals and three assists in just ten appearances this season. Johnston’s energy and attacking prowess have made him a key player in Rodgers’ system, where he often drives forward from the right flank to create opportunities for his teammates.
At center-back, Liam Scales and Cameron Carter-Vickers form a formidable partnership. Despite some fitness issues for Carter-Vickers, the duo has been rock-solid at the heart of Celtic’s defense, conceding just one goal in the Scottish Premiership so far this season. Their defensive resilience has been a major factor in the team’s success, providing a stable foundation for Celtic to build on in both domestic and European fixtures.
On the left side of defense, Greg Taylor continues to impress. The 26-year-old left-back has demonstrated his versatility by not only supporting the attack with overlapping runs but also playing an important role in Celtic’s build-up play. Taylor has been effective in an inverted role, moving into central areas to help dictate the tempo and recycle possession, adding an extra dimension to Celtic’s attacking play.
Moving into midfield, Callum McGregor is an automatic choice. The Celtic captain has been outstanding this season, not only for his leadership but also for his ability to control the midfield and contribute offensively. McGregor’s four stunning goals from outside the box have been crucial in several games, and his ability to dictate the tempo of play makes him the lynchpin of Rodgers’ side.
Joining McGregor in midfield is Arne Engels, the Belgian international who has quickly adapted to life at Celtic Park after arriving from Augsburg. Engels has brought creativity, energy, and a strong physical presence to the midfield, making him an indispensable part of Rodgers’ tactical setup. His performances in both the Scottish Premiership and Champions League have shown why Celtic invested in him during the summer transfer window.
The third midfield spot goes to Paulo Bernardo, a player who has impressed whenever given the opportunity. The Portuguese Under-21 international has perhaps been unlucky not to start more games, but his consistency and ability to influence matches when called upon make him a deserving inclusion in this lineup. His excellent form, particularly in tight games where his composure on the ball has been vital, has seen him edge out the likes of Reo Hatate for a starting spot in this XI.
In the wide areas, Nicolas Kuhn and Daizen Maeda have been standout performers. Between them, the pair has contributed 21 goals and assists this season, underlining their importance to Celtic’s attacking play. Kuhn’s ability to beat defenders and deliver quality crosses into the box has been a major asset, while Maeda’s relentless work rate and pace have caused problems for every defense he’s come up against. Both players have been instrumental in Celtic’s success under Rodgers this season.
Leading the line is Kyogo Furuhashi, who has once again demonstrated why he is one of the most feared strikers in the Scottish Premiership. Despite competition from Adam Idah, who is level with Furuhashi in terms of goals scored this season, the Japanese international gets the nod due to his all-around contribution to Celtic’s attacking play. Furuhashi’s movement, finishing, and ability to link up with the wide players and midfielders make him a crucial part of Rodgers’ system, and he continues to lead by example in every match.
However, despite his performance, Niclas Fullkrug isn’t part of the list. This may be likely linked to his injury, which has prevented him from being a part of the games played so far.
Key Players and Contributions
- Kasper Schmeichel: Six clean sheets in all competitions, bringing experience and stability to Celtic’s defense.
- Alistair Johnston: Two goals and three assists from the right-back position, a constant threat going forward.
- Liam Scales and Cameron Carter-Vickers: One goal conceded in the league, providing a strong defensive partnership.
- Greg Taylor: A versatile left-back who contributes both defensively and in build-up play.
- Callum McGregor: Four goals from midfield, Celtic’s captain and the engine of the team.
- Arne Engels: Strong performances in midfield, contributing creatively and defensively.
- Paulo Bernardo: Consistently strong performances, particularly in tight matches where control in midfield is crucial.
- Nicolas Kuhn and Daizen Maeda: A combined 21 goal contributions, the driving force behind Celtic’s attacking play.
- Kyogo Furuhashi: Leading the line with his intelligent movement and clinical finishing.
Looking Ahead
Celtic’s strong start to the season has set the stage for what could be a memorable campaign under Brendan Rodgers. With a perfect record in the Scottish Premiership and a strong showing in Europe, the Bhoys are well-positioned to compete for silverware on multiple fronts. The upcoming match against Aberdeen will be a true test of their credentials, with both teams tied on points at the top of the table.
Rodgers will be hoping that his key players continue to deliver in the big games, and with a squad full of talent and depth, Celtic fans have every reason to be optimistic. As the season progresses, tough decisions will need to be made in terms of rotation and tactics, but the quality within the squad should allow Celtic to navigate the challenges that lie ahead.
With this current crop of players, Rodgers has built a team capable of achieving great things, both domestically and in Europe. If the Bhoys can maintain their form, they will be in a strong position to reclaim the league title and make further progress in the Champions League. For now, the focus will be on the weekend’s top-of-the-table clash, where Celtic will look to make a statement against their closest rivals.
Sport nation
Amina Umar