Celtic fans were treated to a touch of class ahead of tonight’s Champions League clash against Dinamo Zagreb, as the club shared a brilliant pre-match image featuring former goalkeeper Joe Hart alongside current shot-stopper Kasper Schmeichel.
The picture captures a poignant moment between two greats of the game, each with deep ties to Celtic and a shared history stretching back to their days at Manchester City.
Hart, who retired at the end of last season after three trophy-laden years with the Bhoys, is now carving out a career as a pundit and is covering the match for TNT Sport. Never far from the action when it comes to Celtic, the fan favourite took the opportunity to catch up with Schmeichel, his long-time friend and successorbetween the sticks at Parkhead.
Joe Hart’s three years at Celtic were nothing short of a triumph. Arriving in 2021, he quickly cemented himself as a key figure in the squad and a leader on and off the pitch. His career with the Hoops culminated in a stellar double last season — winning both the Premiership and the Scottish Cup.
Despite hanging up his gloves, Hart has remained a beloved figure among the Celtic faithful. His punditry work has kept him close to the club, especially on European nights, where his insights and passion for the Bhoys shine through.
😀👍#DinamoZagrebCeltic | #UCL | #CelticFC🍀 pic.twitter.com/JtD2al53EA
— Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) December 10, 2024
The image of Hart and Schmeichel is a testament to their enduring friendship, one that began during their time at Manchester City. Both keepers spent formative years at the Etihad, forging a bond that has lasted through the ups and downs of their respective careers.
For Schmeichel, who joined Celtic this season, Hart’s legacy as a leader and winner will undoubtedly have set a high bar. It’s clear there’s mutual respect between the two, and seeing them share a moment before such a big match is brilliant to see.
For Schmeichel, tonight represents another chance to carve out his own chapter in Celtic’s Champions League story.
