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Celtic Tops Fair Game Index for 2024, But Performance Issues Remain

January, 04, 2025-02:33

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Celtic Tops Fair Game Index for 2024, But Performance Issues Remain
Celtic has topped the Fair Game Index's annual report, ranking as Britain’s most sustainably-run football club in 2024, ahead of the likes of Tottenham, Hearts, Manchester United, and Aberdeen. The report, which factors in club finances, governance, fan engagement, and ethical standards, highlights the club’s fiscal prudence, especially in comparison to other big spenders. However, this financial stability stands in stark contrast to the team’s underwhelming performance in the recent Glasgow derby against Rangers, raising questions about the club's ambitions on the pitch.
The summer transfer window saw Celtic under pressure to invest in new talent after a string of disappointing results, particularly the humiliation at Ibrox against Rangers. Despite spending large sums on players such as Adam Idah and Arne Engels, these signings have failed to live up to expectations, with Idah failing to make an impact and Engels relegated to the bench due to injury. Celtic also splashed out £5.5m on Auston Trusty, who only lasted 45 minutes in the Premier Sports Cup final before vanishing from the team due to illness. These questionable investments have left fans wondering whether the club’s transfer strategy is truly aligned with its financial stability.
While Celtic’s early season form under manager Brendan Rodgers was promising, with the team going 18 games unbeaten in the Premiership and opening up a 14-point lead over Rangers, the defeat at Ibrox exposed significant flaws. The team was outfought and outplayed by a Rangers side that, despite having a patched-up lineup, showed more hunger and desire. Celtic's lack of response in the derby raised concerns that their lead had made them complacent, relying too much on talent and not enough on grit and determination. This defeat, however painful, could serve as a wake-up call for the team to recognize that they are not as invincible as they may have thought.
Looking ahead, Celtic faces several squad issues that need to be addressed. The potential signing of Kieran Tierney on a pre-contract is promising, but his injury record raises doubts about his ability to play consistently. The club also needs a more capable left-back, given Greg Taylor’s recent form and the fact that Trusty hasn't been able to displace Liam Scales. Additionally, the need for a more technically gifted left winger and a strong, physical midfielder in the mould of Victor Wanyama is evident, particularly after being overrun by Rangers' midfield. With speculation surrounding the future of star player Kyogo Furuhashi, Celtic’s transfer strategy could become even more critical as they seek to strengthen their squad and regain their dominance.