Celtic’s Donovan and Osmand Highlight Positive Pre-Season Vibes

Celtic’s Colby Donovan and Callum Osmand have opened up about the mood in the pre-season camp as Martin O’Neill’s squad intensifies preparations for the 2026/27 campaign. After a 1-1 draw against Shelbourne, the team traveled to Portugal for further training ahead of a friendly against Sporting CP.

What Did Donovan and Osmand Say About the Squad’s Morale?

Donovan, who made 28 appearances last season, emphasized the camaraderie among the players. The 19-year-old right-back told Celtic FC’s YouTube channel, “It’s just the boys being together, putting the hard work in together, it’s class. Seeing new faces and young players getting their chance is always good.”

Osmand, recovering from a seven-month injury layoff, echoed the sentiment. The 20-year-old striker, who scored in Celtic’s title-clinching win over Hearts, said, “We know the standard now and what we can achieve. Stability is key for us.”

Why Is This Pre-Season Critical for Both Players?

Donovan, who stepped in for the injured Alistair Johnston last season, sees this summer as a chance to solidify his place. With Johnston still on holiday after Canada’s World Cup, Donovan is expected to feature prominently in the upcoming friendlies.

For Osmand, a full pre-season could be pivotal. After his late-season return, he aims to build momentum ahead of competitive fixtures. His injury-free preparation could give him an edge in the striker competition.

What’s Next for Celtic in Pre-Season?

Following the Sporting CP clash, Celtic will face Middlesbrough on 18 July and AC Milan on 25 July. These matches will give O’Neill a chance to assess both established stars and young talents vying for bigger roles.