Celtic have enjoyed a flying start to the campaign and appear well-positioned to continue their strong form after the international break.
The Bhoys have been impeccable in the opening stages of the Scottish Premiership, winning all four of their matches without conceding a single goal. They’ve also secured a spot in the Premier Sports Cup quarter-finals, where they will face Hibernian later this month.
Celtic capped off their first stretch of the season in style, with a dominant victory over Rangers last weekend to reclaim their place at the top of the league table.
Brendan Rodgers has his side playing with intensity and precision, executing his game plan perfectly, while the board has supported him with several exciting new signings.
Now, the main question is whether Celtic can maintain this momentum as they balance domestic responsibilities with their Champions League campaign. Johan Mjallby, the former Celtic defender, is optimistic that his old club can continue their strong form and pursue further success.
Johan Mjallby on Celtic’s momentum
Speaking on the Premier Sports Social Club, Mjallby praised Celtic’s summer transfer business and their early performances this season. He believes the squad is well-equipped to handle the challenges that lie ahead.
“Oh no, they will (go from strength to strength), I’m quite certain about that,” Mjallby said. “Last season, we could fault them a wee bit because they were not playing the best football until the last two or three months of the season. But from day one in pre-season, they have been absolutely brilliant.
“It’s a loss losing O’Riley, but (they inherited) £27 million and now signing a few really, really good, not only squad players but ones that can do well domestically and in the Champions League.
“This team looks really sharp and strong for me, and I think they have a good chance even in the Champions League with the four home games especially.”
Keeping the momentum
Football, of course, is rarely predictable, and Celtic will not always play with the same dominance they’ve shown in their first few matches.
However, the key for Rodgers and his side will be to keep pressing forward, focusing on each game as it comes and not over-analyzing their performances. If they continue on their current trajectory, the results will likely follow.
Rodgers is fully aware of the challenge awaiting him in the Champions League. The competition offers no easy matches, and each tie will be a stern test, even those played at Celtic Park.
But with a solid summer transfer window behind them, Celtic have added depth to their squad, which should help them cope with the demands of juggling European fixtures alongside domestic commitments.
The international break offers Celtic a chance to regroup and rest ahead of what promises to be a demanding period. Having achieved their early objectives in this first phase of the season, the focus now shifts to maintaining their momentum and pushing forward in both the league and Europe.
With a refreshed squad and confidence flowing, Rodgers and his men will be aiming to build on their strong start and keep their winning run going when they return to action.