Kris Boyd, a former Rangers striker, has issued a stinging appraisal of Celtic’s European performances under manager Brendan Rodgers, claiming that the club is “miles off it” when it comes to competing at the highest level. Boyd claims that Celtic’s decision to rehire Rodgers was motivated mostly by a desire to preserve domestic dominance in response to the perceived threat from Rangers, rather than to make a substantial impression in European competitions.
In his critique, Boyd emphasises that, despite Celtic’s dominance in Scottish football, their European performances have been disappointing. He refers to the club’s recent Champions League campaign, in which they lost 2-1 at home against Bayern Munich. Michael Olise and Harry Kane scored for Bayern in that encounter, while Daizen Maeda of Celtic responded late. Rodgers, on the other hand, remains positive, claiming that his squad still has a chance in the return leg in Germany.
Boyd criticises Celtic’s transfer strategy, claiming that the club has failed to invest properly in the quality players required for European success. He claims that, while Celtic has been successful in signing young players, this strategy has not translated into European competitiveness. Football pundit Chris Sutton agrees, pointing out that Rodgers has acknowledged the need for greater quality in the squad to compete at the European level.
Boyd recalls similar deficiencies in European contests during Rodgers’ prior tenure, showing a trend of local success followed by international disappointments. He worries whether the present squad and managerial plans are adequate to break the cycle and make significant progress in Europe.
In conclusion, Boyd’s remark highlights a greater concern among experts and supporters about Celtic’s European ambitions. While the club continues to perform locally, the obstacles on the European front persist, prompting calls for strategic rethinking and additional investment to bridge the gap between home proficiency and European ambitions.
