Celtic are now enjoying a break following another successful campaign that ultimately yielded Scottish Premiership and Scottish Cup glory.
Brendan Rodgers and his group have earned their rest, having participated in 50 competitive matches across 2023/24.
Nevertheless, after a few weeks of respite, preparations for 2024/25 will begin to get underway at Lennoxtown, though players involved in EURO 2024 and Copa America action can expect an extended period of time off once their endeavours on the international stage are over.
Right now, fans don’t have much of an inkling regarding what Celtic’s squad could look like at the start of next term, with transfer activity expected to dominate the headlines over the coming weeks.
Despite this, the Hoops’ pre-season schedule is slowly forming ahead of the new campaign, which isn’t as far away as many think.
Celtic’s pre-season schedule is beginning to take shape
Admittedly, Celtic’s pre-season itinerary is still in a state of infancy; nevertheless, there have been some intriguing details released earlier today by the club.
Following the initial announcement that the Bhoys are facing Ayr United in a friendly on July 5th at Somerset Park to celebrate the opening of their new North Stand, tickets are now on sale by clicking through the link on the official club website.
Of course, legendary Celt Scott Brown is in charge at the Honest Men, and the clash will present the opportunity for the former Hoops’ skipper to re-unite with Rodgers on the touchline.
It is unclear what kind of squad could be fielded in this encounter; however, on the face of it, there could be an early opportunity to take a peek at any new additions that are brought in.
Celtic are heading to the United States for some glamour ties
Who doesn’t love a glamour tie in pre-season? 67 Hail Hail has rigorously covered the Bhoys’ upcoming tour of the United States, where they will face DC United, Manchester City and Chelsea in three matches bound to generate excitement ahead of the new season.
Celtic start off against DC United at Audi Field, Washington on July 20th before travelling to face reigning Premier League champions Manchester City in North Carolina three days later.
Finishing off, Rodgers’ men make the trip to Indiana to face Chelsea at the iconic Notre Dame Stadium in South Bend on July 27th, home to the Notre Dame Fighting Irish college football team.
Enzo Maresca, who was on Celtic’s shortlist to replace Ange Postecoglou last summer, is in pole position to land the Chelsea job and is expected to be announced as their new head coach. Therefore, he could be in the opposing dugout [Sky Sports].
The cycle of modern football never ceases to amaze. Either way, the Bhoys have plenty to look forward to once the new term gets underway.