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Martin O’Neill highlights recruitment urgency for Celtic ahead of UCL qualifiers

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 15, 2026, 9:00 AM

Last updated Jun 15, 2026

Martin O’Neill highlights recruitment urgency for Celtic ahead of UCL qualifiers

Summary

Celtic manager Martin O’Neill has raised concerns about the team's readiness for their upcoming Champions League play-off on August 18 or 19. He emphasized the need for improved recruitment to close the gap with opponents, who will have had more competitive matches by then. Last year's early exit to Kairat Almaty underscores the importance of this issue. O’Neill noted that timely signings are crucial to ensure players are integrated before European competition begins. The draw for the play-off is scheduled for early August, with O’Neill working to finalize key acquisitions by that date.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•O’Neill warns of challenges in upcoming Champions League play-off
•Celtic was eliminated by Kairat Almaty at this stage last year
•First leg of play-off is set for August 18 or 19
•Celtic aims to complete key signings before the play-off draw
•O’Neill acknowledges delay in recruitment has caused supporter anxiety

Latest Updates

9:00 AMYahoo Sports — O’Neill Admits UCL Qualifier Concern as Celtic Recruitment Becomes Critical

What they're saying

"
Martin O’Neill has gone on record about the danger Celtic face in the August Champions League play-off – and the subtext is impossible to miss: get the recruitment right, or we risk another Kairat...
— Yahoo Sports

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Champions League Soccer