Celtic will face Bayern Munich in the Champions League knockout stages after Friday morning’s draw in Switzerland confirmed the German giants as their next opponents. The first leg will take place at Celtic Park on either 11 or 12 February, with the return leg in Bavaria set for 18 or 19 February.

Brendan Rodgers’ side had a 50/50 chance of drawing either Bayern or Real Madrid, and now their European fate is sealed. The Bundesliga champions present a formidable challenge, with Celtic aiming to reach the quarter-finals of the competition for the first time in the modern era.

However, preparations for the tie have already been overshadowed by UEFA sanctions, with Friday’s announcement that Celtic are facing a charge over pyro use by away fans at Villa Park on Wednesday night. The club had been on a two-year probation period due to a similar offence against Borussia Dortmund earlier this season, and UEFA’s latest action could see Celtic fans banned from attending the away leg in Munich.

CELTIC STILL ACTIVE IN TRANSFER MARKET

With the Champions League showdown looming, Celtic still have business to conduct before Monday’s transfer deadline. The club are actively seeking reinforcements at both striker and left-back, areas Rodgers is keen to strengthen in the final days of the window.

The need for another forward has only increased after Kyogo Furuhashi’s recent departure to Rennes, leaving Adam Idah as the club’s main striking option. Meanwhile, defensive cover on the left side remains a priority, with Greg Taylor currently Celtic’s only recognised left-back in the squad.

With UEFA’s decision on away fans still pending and key additions needed before the deadline, the build-up to this tie is already proving eventful. Celtic will need to navigate these off-field challenges if they are to give themselves the best chance against one of Europe’s elite.