Brendan Rodgers Embraces New Champions League Format

Celtic clinched the Scottish Premiership title last week, securing their spot in the next season’s UEFA Champions League. The upcoming 2024/25 season will introduce a new format where teams will play eight matches instead of six, shifting from the traditional group stage to a ‘league phase’ with four home and four away games.

In a recent interview with Celtic TV, manager Brendan Rodgers shared his enthusiasm for the changes, citing three key benefits. “It’s very exciting because you get those extra couple of games at that level. For us, whether that’s for football development or financial reasons, it’s a huge benefit for a club like ours,” Rodgers explained. He emphasized the importance of competing against top-tier teams, highlighting the challenge and growth it brings to the squad.

Rodgers also took a moment to commend the Celtic FC Women’s team for their remarkable achievement. They secured their first-ever league title with a thrilling last-minute goal by Amy Gallacher. This victory marks a significant milestone for the club and adds to the celebratory mood around Celtic.

Shifting focus back to his own team, Rodgers discussed the preparations underway for the upcoming Scottish Cup Final 2024. The squad is gearing up for a potential league and cup double, with the final set to take place at Hampden Park. “It’s pretty much relaxed but focused,” Rodgers described the atmosphere. “We had a great celebration over the weekend, but now our attention is firmly on the Scottish Cup final.”

He praised the team’s rigorous preparation and the quality of the playing surface at Hampden, stressing the importance of bringing their best performance to this last showpiece game of the season. “We want to finish what has already been a fantastic season on a high note,” Rodgers concluded, expressing confidence in his team’s readiness and determination.

As Celtic looks forward to the revamped Champions League and the immediate challenge of the Scottish Cup Final, the club’s supporters have much to anticipate. Rodgers’ leadership and the team’s recent successes set a promising tone for the future.