# Celtic FC performance and leadership challenges > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/celtic-fc-performance-and-leadership-challenges > Updated: 2026-09-17T14:19:56.000Z. Sources: 18. Developments: 2. Celtic FC has experienced a period of poor form following a 3-0 League Cup quarter-final defeat to Rangers and a 3-1 Europa League loss to Ferencvaros. Following the defeat at Ibrox, captain Callum McGregor criticized the squad for lacking cohesion, describing the team as a “collection of individuals” rather than a unit. He specifically noted tactical deficiencies regarding defensive organization and running when possession is lost. As pressure mounts, McGregor has issued an ultimatum to his teammates, stating they “have to win” their upcoming Scottish Premiership derby against Rangers. Amidst these struggles, journalist Tom English has described the team as a “very poorly coached side” due to their lack of on-pitch organization. Following the 3-1 Europa League defeat at Parkhead, manager Martin O’Neill has faced renewed scrutiny regarding the team's tactical structure. The match also prompted a social media controversy involving TNT reporter Connie McLaughlin. While some online claims suggested O’Neill had been condescending toward the journalist, McLaughlin clarified that he had addressed her by name, stating, “I’m sorry, Connie,” rather than using a diminutive term. Recent setbacks have been compounded by a significant Champions League exit against LASK Linz, where the team squandered a 4-0 lead to lose 5-1 in the second leg. Despite this slump, Celtic remains at the top of the Scottish Premiership. O’Neill has defended his record and dismissed suggestions that the club has hit “rock bottom,” while acknowledging supporter frustration. As the club prepares for the Old Firm derby at Celtic Park, O’Neill has addressed concerns regarding his age and the team’s recent form. While critics have labeled the squad “lazy” following high-profile losses, the upcoming match against Derek McInnes’s Rangers presents an opportunity for Celtic to extend their league lead to eight points or allow Rangers to close the gap in the title race. ## Claims - Celtic lost 3-1 to Ferencvaros in a Europa League match. (corroborated by 2 sources) - Celtic lost 3-0 to Rangers at Ibrox recently. (corroborated by 2 sources) - Mika Baur scored the lone goal for Celtic against Ferencvaros. (corroborated by 2 sources) - Celtic must win their upcoming match against Rangers. (single source) - Journalist Tom English criticized Celtic's coaching and organization. (single source) - Rangers manager Derek McInnes is seeking a sixth consecutive win. (single source) - Tuur Rommens is a potential returnee to the Rangers squad. (single source) ## Timeline ### 2026-09-17: Celtic manager Martin O’Neill faces pressure ahead of Old Firm derby Celtic manager Martin O’Neill faces scrutiny following recent losses to Rangers and Ferencvaros as the club prepares for a high-stakes Old Firm derby in the Scottish Premiership. 15 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/celtic-captain-mcgregor-demands-victory-ahead-of-rangers-derby ### 2026-09-14: Callum McGregor criticizes Celtic unity after Rangers defeat Celtic captain Callum McGregor slammed his team as a collection of individuals following a 3-0 League Cup defeat to Rangers, citing a lack of cohesion and defensive organization. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/callum-mcgregor-criticizes-celtic-unity-after-rangers-defeat --- Cite as: Celtic FC performance and leadership challenges. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/celtic-fc-performance-and-leadership-challenges