Celtic’s major shareholder, Dermot Desmond, has offered rare public insight into his views on the Hoops’ start to the 2024/25 campaign, expressing satisfaction with the club’s progress.
Desmond, known for keeping a low profile, took the opportunity to comment during a recent appearance at a golf tournament. He spoke to the BBC about Celtic’s early-season form.
“I am very pleased,” Desmond said, highlighting his contentment with the quality of football being played under Brendan Rodgers.
“We had a good start and could have played bad football, but we have played very good and exciting football.”
Celtic currently top the Scottish Premiership table, and while the domestic results have been strong, Desmond also touched on the Hoops’ mixed fortunes in Europe.
The club suffered a disappointing 7-1 loss to Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League, starkly contrasting their otherwise positive league form.
Reflecting on this, Desmond admitted the performance in Germany wasn’t up to the club’s usual standards. “Unfortunately we weren’t at our best on Tuesday,” he acknowledged.
Despite this setback, Desmond is backing Rodgers and the squad to turn things around, adding: “I like what we are doing, what Brendan is doing and I think we have a good squad.”
Hearing Desmond speak publicly will be equally as refreshing and strange to Celtic supporters.
The Irishman rarely discusses his thoughts about the Hoops, keeping things under wraps despite his heavy involvement with the club.
Celtic’s Champions League Ambitions
Turning his attention to the Champions League, where Celtic face a new league-style group phase, Desmond remains optimistic about the potential for improvement in Europe.
With eight different opponents to face, the format is a challenge, but also one that excites Desmond.
“I would like to see some good results, home results and maybe nick a point or two away,” he said, underlining the importance of maximising Celtic’s chances at Parkhead while hoping for crucial results on the road.
“I think we have done exceptionally well so far. It’s interesting to play eight different teams, four at home and four away with all different rankings. I think it makes it exciting for the club, the supporters and people generally,” he added.
Desmond will be eager to see Celtic bounce back from the heavy defeat to Dortmund and push for a place in the last-16 play-offs.
With fixtures against teams of varying quality still to come, there’s still time for the Hoops to leave their mark on Europe’s biggest stage.
