Celtic's manager Martin O'Neill says last season was a wake-up call for the double winners. The Scottish champions are facing a tough title defense, with O'Neill expecting a strong challenge from Rangers and Hearts.

What happened last season?

Celtic secured their 14th Premiership crown in 15 years in remarkable fashion, winning their final seven matches to snatch a title that had at times seemed to be edging out of reach.

Why it matters for Celtic

The lack of incomings so far is stark, with Celtic yet to make a single signing, and uncertainty surrounds the future of key players Daizen Maeda, Arne Engels, and Benjamin Nygren.

What comes next?

As of 30 Jun 2026, Celtic are 3rd in Premiership, with 67 pts, 21W-4D-8L from 33 games, and a recent form of WWWWW. | Category | Value | | League standing | 3rd in Premiership | | Goals this season | 59 scored, 35 conceded | | Title race | 3 points behind leaders Heart Of Midlothian | | Last result | Celtic 3-1 Dunfermline (2026-05-23) | | Recent form | 5W-0D-0L (WWWWW) |

O'Neill has had little time to digest last season's success, and the club's playing squad is in urgent need of reinforcements and more quality.