Celtic’s Scottish Premiership success under Brendan Rodgers this season was so important for several different reasons.
Firstly, it further cemented the Hoops’ credentials as the best team in the country, but that is common knowledge anyway.
In all seriousness, the financial benefits of Celtic claiming the title are set to be lucrative, with automatic entry into the new Champions League format providing two extra games and a host of performance-based incentives.
Four home ties and four away clashes will yield a 21% increase in TV money from the competition; meanwhile, more benefits are on offer once gate receipts and other commercial revenue kick in.
Summing the situation up, Celtic have opened up a world of possibilities for progress both on and off the pitch, though Brendan Rodgers is more concerned about the former as he aims to build a side capable of competing at the top table.
Brendan Rodgers on Celtic participating in the Champions League
Supporters will be eager for Celtic’s third successive appearance in the competition proper, in what will be another chance to have another crack at the European elite.
Speaking about the club featuring in the new format, Rodgers has rolled out some of the benefits his side’s involvement may have from an internal perspective as he looks to utilise these experiences to help the Bhoys grow into a competitive force on the continent.
He explained [Celtic FC]: “Well, it’s very exciting because there’s those extra couple of games at that level, which for us, in every which way, whether it’s football development, whether it’s financial, it’s of huge benefit to a club like ourselves.
“From a football perspective, I’m always really excited about testing ourselves against the very best teams.”
Celtic need to have a strong summer transfer window
In order to stand a chance in the Champions League, Celtic need to make savvy recruitment choices to bolster their ranks ahead of next season.
Acquiring a high-calibre goalkeeper has to be a priority to replace the retiring Joe Hart. Wolfsburg stopper Koen Casteels has been floated as a target to succeed the former England international, exemplifying the level of player the Hoops could look to target this summer.
The Champions League is an evolving space where the elite have grown their riches to far beyond the reaches of Celtic and others; however, with the right additions, there can still be a way for the club to put up a fight on the European stage.