Celtic ended the season on a low. The Hoops won the league for the 55th time, which was the ultimate goal at the beginning of the season. But Celtic lost the Scottish Cup final to Aberdeen, which left a bad taste at the end. Fans were happy with the league win but disappointed with how the season finished.

Now, as the summer transfer window approaches, some questions are being asked about the money spent last year and whether the same mistakes might be made again.

Last summer, Celtic spent £26 million on three players. Auston Trusty was signed to strengthen the defence. Arne Engels came into the midfield and is the most expensive signing in the Hoops’ history at £11 million. Adam Idah joined for £9 million to help with goals. These were big signings and expectations were high.

Trusty has played a lot of games but the defence has still had its problems. There were times during the season, especially in important games, where the defence looked shaky.

Engels is a young midfielder with talent, but he hasn’t made the impact many hoped for. He has struggled at times to control games and stand out in midfield.

Idah, on the other hand, has scored 20 goals, which is a good return for a striker. But even with those goals, fans and pundits are not sure if the money was well spent overall.

During a discussion on Open Goal, the topic came up. Si Ferry asked, “Will there be a nervousness about recruitment in the summer as well? Based on last (summer). Trusty, Engels, and Idah. £26 million. Have they been good enough for the money that has been spent on them?”

James McFadden replied by saying, “It’s hard because Idah is 20 goals this season. You can look at the overall play, but you are getting goals off him. Ultimately, that’s his job.”

McFadden also said, “Nervousness? There might be. They still won the league at a canter. It’s a massive upset. It shouldn’t really be that big of an upset for Aberdeen to beat Celtic in a cup final, but it is.”

He added, “I think what it shows is that there needs to be investment. There needs to be strengthening done. I know that would have been the case, no matter what. I think there will be. That’s what happens when you lose a game. The fans start to question the value you are getting.”

The feeling going into this summer is that Celtic need to get their signings right. There will be Champions League qualifiers in August, and the chance to go one better and win a treble. The Hoops needs players who can make a difference in the big games. Spending money is not enough. The players brought in must perform well and improve the team.

Last season’s signings showed some positives, especially with Idah’s goals, but also left doubts. The defence still needs improved and midfield more control. The club has money to spend, but how they spend it is now under the spotlight more so than ever. Fans want to see smart deals and players who are ready to step in and deliver from day one.

The next few months will be important. Celtic have the chance to build on the double, but only if the right players are brought in. Mistakes like last summer can’t be repeated.