Brendan Rodgers is exuding confidence as Celtic gears up for their Champions League opener against Slovan Bratislava.

This positive outlook is founded on the solid groundwork laid over the past year, where Rodgers has not only integrated new signings into the team but has also deepened his understanding of the squad.

Compared to last season, Celtic appears significantly stronger. Rodgers has had a full year to imprint his philosophy on the team, and the fruits of his labour are evident in the assured and cohesive performances so far this season.

Rodgers talks up this readiness, contrasting it with the uncertainties of campaigns in his previous tenure where qualification phases and last-minute signings added layers of complexity. Now, with a more settled squad and clear tactical direction, Celtic approaches the Champions League not just to participate but to make an impactful statement.

“There is absolutely no doubt this feels the most ready I’ve been as a Celtic manager coming into a Champions League campaign,” the manager told Clyde SSB.

“Because of the qualifications faze, and the doubt around that and trying to get players in late on the back of that.

“Last season, coming in, trying to find out about players and managing them through that and seeing them in the competition gut having had a year back here and seeing all the players and seeing them improve in a lot of areas that I want.

“The readiness is a great word. That feeling of arriving at this first game is the best place I’ve been in since I’ve been here.”

Celtic have a great opener against Bratislava. It’s far from an easy match, but it’s a team that Celtic are more than capable of beating.

Starting the campaign off positively will be crucial for Celtic’s aspirations to progress deeper into the Champions League, with the new format set to give the Scottish side’s chances a huge boost.

It’s all eyes on Celtic Park on Wednesday night.