Celtic strolled to the Scottish Premiership title last season, finishing 17 points ahead despite a couple of derby defeats and a noticeable drop in form during the second half of the campaign. Even when not firing on all cylinders, Brendan Rodgers’ side had more than enough to leave Rangers and the rest of the league in their wake.
With Rodgers now heading into his third season back at the helm in his second spell, Celtic are in a strong position. The Irishman is settled, the squad is stable, and several signings are expected to be completed in the coming weeks. There’s a clear plan in place at Lennoxtown and no signs of panic.
Over at Ibrox, it’s a different story. Rangers have recently appointed Russell Martin as head coach, a manager with no previous coaching experience in the Scottish game and a lot of work ahead of him. His arrival signals another reset for a side that’s struggled for consistency and direction since Steven Gerrard’s departure.
Despite all that, Kris Boyd has decided now is the time to declare that Rangers will win the league. The former striker made the claim without offering any tactical explanation or insight into how the gap would be closed. For Boyd, it seems belief alone is enough.
He said: (Sky Sports), “Yeah, well, I think obviously, Celtic will start the season as heavy favourites. There’s no doubt about that. They’ve got all the top quality players in the league.
“But Rangers will win it.”
Rangers are still chasing. Russell Martin will need time to get his ideas across and figure out what he’s working with. Even with a good summer, closing a 17-point gap won’t be easy.
Rodgers knows what it takes to win. Celtic have stuck with a clear plan and have the quality and depth to go again this season.
Boyd’s comments will get people talking, but there’s little to support them. Celtic look ready to kick on again. Rangers are still trying to find their feet.
