Celtic has taken an unorthodox approach to pre-match entertainment, featuring live singers as part of the build-up.

However, this decision hasn’t gone down well with a section of the fanbase.

Artists like Liam McGrandles, Ellie Dixon, and most recently, Rianne Downie, have been gracing the Parkhead pitch to entertain the crowds. Despite the good intentions, some supporters believe this affects the traditional matchday atmosphere and that the club should simply ‘let the people sing’.

Celtic’s Supporter Liaison Officer (SLO), John Paul Taylor, recently took to X, formally Twitter, to confirm that the club had not scheduled any singer for pre-match against Atletico Madrid.

No, none this week

— CELTIC FC SLO (@CelticFCSLO) October 24, 2023

This decision seems to be a direct response to the fans’ feelings on the matter.

This is not the first time a football club has tried to infuse entertainment elements into the matchday experience, but it’s always a balancing act. What works for one club’s fan base might not be received well by another’s. Celtic, with its rich history and passionate supporters, has always boasted an electric atmosphere on matchdays. For many, this move seems like an unnecessary change to an already cherished pre-match ritual.