Celtic’s preparations for the 2025/26 season are officially underway as the first group of players returned to Lennoxtown on Friday.
It was a more understated start to pre-season, with the majority of returning players made up of youth prospects and those not involved in international duty over the summer.
Among the senior faces back early was skipper Callum McGregor, who is relishing a rare extended rest after retiring from Scotland duty following last summer’s Euros disappointment in Germany.
“It’s been a long summer. Longer than what I am used to anyway,” McGregor admitted on the Celtic website. “But over the last few days, you are just eager to get back in and get back on it. You always have that excitement about what a new season can bring, with the opportunities and possibilities.”
McGregor added: “So, it’s nice to get away, refresh and take stock a little bit. Once you drive through the gate this morning, you are back to work, and the serious stuff starts now. So, we’re looking forward to it.”
The squad were put through a light session on Friday but will begin full double sessions from Saturday onward.
Celtic’s first friendly is set for Friday evening against Queen’s Park at the City Stadium, with tickets for Celtic fans selling out.
It’s the opening match in a packed pre-season calendar which also includes glamour ties against the likes of Newcastle United, Ajax and Sporting CP as the Hoops prepare for another tilt at domestic and European silverware.
Celtic will look to be up to speed by the time the start of the season rolls around. They start with St Mirren at home before travelling to Pittodrie.
They’ll play a Champions League knockout tie either side of the home match to Livingston before travelling to the Southside for the first Glasgow Derby of the season at the end of August.
