Celtic manager Martin O'Neill under pressure as club remains inactive in transfer market

Celtic Football Club has entered the summer transfer window without signing a single player, drawing criticism from supporters and media commentators. Former player Chris Sutton highlighted the lack of activity, noting that rival Scottish clubs such as Rangers, Hearts, Aberdeen and Falkirk have already added multiple new faces while Celtic has only recorded twelve departures. The club’s recent Champions League exit to Kairat Almaty and the forced retirement of goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel have intensified calls for a squad overhaul, especially in the goalkeeping department.

Principal shareholder Dermot Desmond has pledged a substantial transfer budget to back manager Martin O'Neill, who returned for a second spell after the double‑winning campaign. Former Scotland captain Paul Lambert stated that O'Neill “won’t accept last season syndrome” and is expected to demand the quality needed to retain the title and compete in Europe. The ongoing inactivity raises questions about Celtic’s ability to remain competitive both domestically and in European competition.