Celtic have officially added a number of fixtures to their pre-season schedule, confirming their participation in the newly announced ‘Como Cup’ set to take place between July 23 and July 27.
The Hoops previously teased the trip earlier via their official social media channels, posting a graphic reading “Football on the Lake – July 23–27”.
Football on the Lake – July 23–27 pic.twitter.com/r99gkV9ZTS
— Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) June 3, 2025
It has now been revealed that the tournament will be hosted in Como, Italy, with Celtic joined by Dutch giants Ajax, Saudi Pro League side Al Ahli, and Serie A outfit Como 1907, who recently gained significant investment and attention due to their high-profile ownership group.
Four clubs. One lake. One unforgettable week.#FootballOnTheLake #ComoCup pic.twitter.com/nUjo7bl6L0
— Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) June 3, 2025
While the exact match schedule is yet to be finalised, Celtic’s involvement in the competition signals a strong step up in the calibre of their summer opposition. It will provide Brendan Rodgers’ squad with meaningful tests ahead of their domestic title defence and Champions League campaign.
This announcement comes after the club had already confirmed friendlies against Cork City and Premier League side Newcastle United earlier in July. The clash with Cork City is expected to serve as the first run-out of the summer, with the game against Newcastle offering a more competitive fixture against a side who finished in the European spots in England last term.
Rodgers will use the pre-season matches to bring potential new signings into the squad and get the team ready for the competitive season. The Hoops squad boasts experienced heads such as Callum McGregor, Cameron Carter-Vickers and Kieran Tierney, alongside more recent arrivals like Luke McCowan and Arne Engels.
With the first SPFL fixture schedule set to be published on Friday, June 20 at 9.00am, the William Hill Premiership will kick off on the weekend of August 1–3. The Como Cup will offer a high-quality warm-up as the Hoops gear up for a demanding 2025/26 season, which includes Champions League qualifiers in late August.
