Elena Sadiku’s second summer in charge of Celtic Women is off to a rocky start, with signs emerging that the manager is losing support.
Sadiku arrived midway through the season before last and helped guide the team to a dramatic first-ever SWPL title. That crowning moment came courtesy of Amy Gallagher’s stoppage-time goal at Celtic Park on the final day of the campaign.
It was a time when the team and the fans were together, and everyone was hoping they’d kick on.
But those hopes quickly faded. Celtic’s Champions League campaign ended without a point (which was partly expected), and domestically, they endured a hugely disappointing fourth-place finish – surrendering their title and missing out on Europe altogether.
Now, as pre-season gets underway, Sadiku is not even in the country – away on media duties while the squad begins preparations without her.
Celtic have also seen an exodus of players this summer, with nearly all the stars heading for the exit.
Caitlin Hayes headed for Brighton in January. Rumours persist that her departure was down to a breakdown in the relationship with Sadiku.
Released goalkeeper Kelsey Daugherty has poured further fuel on the fire.
In a TikTok video about the shared house she lived in with other now-departed players, Daugherty liked comments including “Sack the manager!” and “Manager’s ruined the team!”
@the.palace12 ❤️
Sadiku may have delivered the title, but the goodwill is evaporating fast. With results falling short and trust seemingly eroding, she now faces a crucial test to win back the dressing room – and keep her Celtic reign alive.
