Celtic Wounds Reopen as Ange Spurs On in Europe

Ange Postecoglou is set to face a team that will bring back some memories when he takes charge of Tottenham in their Europa League semi-final against Bodø/Glimt.

For Celtic fans, this brings back a not-so-pleasant memory from 2022, when Postecoglou’s Celtic side were knocked out by Bodø/Glimt in the Europa Conference League knockout round.

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REUTERS/Russell Cheyne

That 5–1 aggregate defeat was a tough one to swallow. Celtic struggled to break down the Norwegian side, who proved to be clinical with their chances.

It was a humbling experience for Postecoglou and the team, especially after Celtic had been so dominant that season. But Postecoglou was quick to admit that his side had a lot to learn from that defeat and that European football was a level that required constant improvement.

But now, in 2025, Postecoglou’s journey has taken him to the English Premier League, where he’s currently managing Tottenham. However, things aren’t going smoothly in North London. Tottenham sit a disappointing 15th in the Premier League, well below expectations.

For Postecoglou, this Europa League semi-final could be his last chance to salvage his job. He’s previously stated that he’s always been successful in his second season at clubs, and winning the Europa League to secure a Champions League spot for next season remains a realistic possibility.

Soccer Football – Premier League – Everton v Tottenham Hotspur – Goodison Park, Liverpool, Britain – January 19, 2025 Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou Action Images via Reuters/Jason Cairnduff EDITORIAL USE ONLY. NO USE WITH UNAUTHORIZED AUDIO, VIDEO, DATA, FIXTURE LISTS, CLUB/LEAGUE LOGOS OR ‘LIVE’ SERVICES. ONLINE IN-MATCH USE LIMITED TO 120 IMAGES, NO VIDEO EMULATION. NO USE IN BETTING, GAMES OR SINGLE CLUB/LEAGUE/PLAYER PUBLICATIONS. PLEASE CONTACT YOUR ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVE FOR FURTHER DETAILS..

While Postecoglou has grown as a manager since his Celtic days, the pressure is mounting at Tottenham. The club’s underperformance in the league has left fans and management questioning whether the Australian is the right man to lead them forward.

A strong run in Europe could be the boost he needs, and lifting the Europa League trophy would not only secure a place in the Champions League but could also prove to Spurs fans that Postecoglou’s approach is starting to pay off.

As Celtic fans, will be watching with interest, knowing that while their focus is on our own successes, the story of Postecoglou’s time at Tottenham is still unfolding.

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