Celtic Crash Out of Champions League to Almaty: Key Factors Behind Humiliating Defeat
Sportswriter Tom English examines the factors behind Celtic's shock Champions League qualifying defeat to Kairat Almaty and explores the potential fallout across the club.
Celtic suffered one of their most humiliating Champions League exits, falling to Kairat Almaty without scoring in 210 minutes and missing three penalties in the shootout.
After costly setbacks against clubs like Maribor, Malmo and AEK Athens in recent seasons, this defeat marks a new low under manager Brendan Rodgers. Despite reaching the last 16 against Bayern Munich in the previous campaign, Celtic arrived in Kazakhstan without addressing clear gaps in their squad.
Squad weaknesses exposed
Key signings such as Adam Idah and Arne Engels have struggled for form and fitness. With over £40 million invested in new players, the lack of goals and cohesion across two legs highlights errors in transfer strategy and squad planning.
Shared responsibility
The club's board, led by majority shareholder Dermot Desmond and chief executive Michael Nicholson, failed to outline a clear vision or timely reinforcements. Rodgers' tactical approach and public praise of underperforming players also came under scrutiny after another European flop.
Outlook and implications
Celtic still remain favourites for domestic honors, but European ambitions are now in serious doubt. The board must decide whether to back Rodgers with new signings or consider a managerial change next summer.
This defeat underscores the urgent need for Celtic to revamp their squad and clarify their European strategy or risk further setbacks on the continental stage.
This topic was reported by BBC.
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