Celtic manager Martin O'Neill is considering a tactical overhaul to field new £17million strikers Kasper Hogh and Camilo Duran together, potentially abandoning the club’s long-standing 4-3-3 formation. League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 3rd in Premiership, 67 pts, 21W-4D-8L from 33 games, recent form WWWWW.
How will O’Neill fit both forwards in?
Hogh, a £11m record signing from Bodo/Glimt, and £6m Duran from Qarabag combined for 11 Champions League goals last season. O’Neill hinted at flexibility, noting Duran’s ability to play wide or off the striker, while Hogh thrives as a penalty-box finisher. The Hoops boss recalled his past success with 3-5-2 and 4-4-2 systems during his trophy-laden first spell at Parkhead.
Why change Celtic’s trusted 4-3-3?
O’Neill stressed adaptability, suggesting minor positional shifts could unlock the duo’s potential. With Celtic finishing 3 points behind leaders Heart Of Midlothian last season and on a 5-game winning run (5W-0D-0L), the pressure is on to evolve tactically. The £40m Champions League play-off looms, demanding fresh ideas.
What’s next for Hogh and Duran?
Hogh, 25, is set for his debut against Dundee on Monday, with O’Neill praising his leadership and personality. The manager met Hogh in London before finalising the club’s most expensive signing. Duran’s versatility offers options, but O’Neill’s priority is maximising their partnership up front.
