Celtic’s Financial Dominance Over Rangers Spells Doom for Ibrox Club
A football finance expert, Stefan Borson, has warned that Celtic’s significant financial lead over Rangers will be difficult to overcome. Celtic’s latest accounts show a record-breaking revenue of £124.6 million, surpassing Rangers’ £83.75 million.
Key Financials:
- Celtic’s revenue rose 3.9% to £124.6 million
- Record profit for the third consecutive year
- Rangers’ revenue was £83.75 million in 2022-23
- Celtic’s wage bill is £60 million
- Champions League participation provides significant financial advantage
Borson noted that Celtic’s wage bill is manageable and their Champions League participation provides a substantial advantage. “Celtic’s wage bill is more under control than most Premier League teams… They are actually quite well-placed… Their wage bill for 2023 was £60 million, which would be at the bottom of the Premier League.”
The financial gap between the two teams could prove insurmountable for Rangers, who trail Celtic by five points in the Premiership. The two teams may meet in the Premier Sports Cup final if they win their semi-final matches.
Implications:
- Celtic’s financial dominance may cement their position as Scottish football’s top team
- Rangers may struggle to catch up due to the significant financial gap
- Champions League revenue provides Celtic with a substantial advantage
Borson emphasized the significance of Celtic’s Champions League revenue: “It’s a big advantage over Rangers, who just won’t have let’s say £50 million that comes from the group stages… It’s probably pretty close. It’s just an enormous advantage they have over Rangers.”
This financial disparity may have long-term consequences for Rangers, making it challenging for them to compete with Celtic. The Ibrox club will need to explore alternative strategies to bridge the financial gap and challenge Celtic’s dominance.
The Scottish Premiership title race and the Premier Sports Cup final may be significantly influenced by Celtic’s financial advantage. Rangers will need to rely on their squad’s strength and tactical prowess to overcome the financial disparity.
As the season unfolds, Celtic’s financial dominance will likely continue to shape the narrative of Scottish football. Rangers will face an uphill battle to challenge Celtic’s position as the top team in Scotland.