Celtic manager Martin O’Neill has underscored the urgent need for reinforcements to bolster his squad ahead of the upcoming Scottish Premiership season. Speaking to the press on Friday, O’Neill acknowledged the significant turnover in his team during the off-season, with up to a dozen players having departed and only two new signings arriving so far.
While his remarks included characteristic humor and nostalgic reflections, O’Neill made it clear that he is actively pursuing additional acquisitions. A key target identified by the manager is Fares Ghedjemis, a forward whose signing O’Neill confirmed with notable interest. This follows an earlier attempt to secure Ghedjemis during the January transfer window, which was unsuccessful as the player opted to remain with his club Frosinone to help them achieve promotion to Serie A.
The manager’s pursuit of Ghedjemis signals the club’s intent to strengthen their attacking options, though the player is expected to command a significant transfer fee. Celtic’s financial position appears robust, bolstered by recent income from player sales including those of Arne Engels and Alistair Johnston, which should enable the club to invest further in squad improvements.
O’Neill has previously been instrumental in finalizing the signing of Kasper Høgh and is expected to push for further additions, particularly to address weaknesses on the wings. Heading into the Premiership opener against Dundee, Celtic’s options on the flanks are limited. Sebastian Tounekti and Michel-Ange Balikwisha are primary choices on the left, while Yang Hyun-jun and James Forrest cover the right side. However, Balikwisha is reportedly set to leave on loan, and Forrest’s role has diminished to that of an impact substitute. The club may temporarily deploy Camilo Duran on the wing, though his strengths lie centrally.
In midfield, pressing needs remain acute following the anticipated departures of Engels and Paulo Bernardo, compounded by Reo Hatate’s unsettled status. While Callum McGregor, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, and Benjamin Nygren offer quality, the squad lacks depth in physicality and stamina, areas O’Neill considers essential for sustained competitiveness.
Despite challenges, O’Neill emphasized that Celtic retains a strong foundation relative to their Scottish rivals. He noted that excluding last season’s disruption under former manager Wilfried Nancy, the team might have secured the league title more comfortably. Nonetheless, the manager warned that without substantial reinforcements, the campaign would be a difficult one, particularly with aspirations to reach the Champions League group stage.
O’Neill’s measured public comments reflect a persistent message to the club’s boardroom: further investment is necessary to maintain Celtic’s dominance domestically and to advance competitively on the European stage.