When I look back on my time with Celtic, one of the moments that still burns brightest in my memory is our run to the 2003 UEFA Cup final in Seville. We were so close to writing our names into history, yet fell just short against José Mourinho’s Porto after extra time. It was heartbreaking at the time, not just for the players but for the thousands of Celtic supporters who flooded the streets of Seville and turned that final into one of the greatest spectacles European football has ever seen. Despite the disappointment, that campaign proved what Celtic are capable of on the European stage when everything clicks into place.
Fast forward to today, and I believe Celtic have another chance to truly make their mark in Europe. The financial structure of modern football makes it harder for clubs outside of the “big five” leagues to compete, but Celtic are one of the few exceptions. Their stature, history, and incredible fan base mean that on the right night, in the right conditions, they can go toe-to-toe with anyone. What I see in the current squad is a balance between experience and youthful hunger, and crucially, a manager who understands what it means to play “the Celtic way.”
The club’s strong financial footing also puts them in a position to build. They have posted impressive profits and hold significant cash reserves, which gives them the stability to strengthen wisely. That’s something we didn’t always have in my era. We relied heavily on togetherness, spirit, and the brilliance of individuals like Henrik Larsson to carry us forward. Today, Celtic can combine that same spirit with better resources, deeper squads, and more tactical versatility.
What will always set Celtic apart in Europe is the fans. In 2003, their passion was so widely praised that UEFA awarded them the Fair Play award for their conduct in Seville. That kind of unwavering support can give players the extra edge needed in tight knockout games. When you’re standing in the tunnel at
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