Celtic’s financial strength has been underlined once again, with the club ranking among the top in Europe in key revenue areas, according to UEFA’s latest European Club Finance and Investment Landscape Report. [Sky Sports]
Celtic Among Europe’s Most Profitable Clubs
The Hoops recorded a €21m (£17.6m) pre-tax profit in 2024, placing them seventh in Europe alongside Atalanta. While this marked a drop from the €47m (£39.3m) recorded in 2023, the club’s financial model remains among the most sustainable on the continent.
UEFA attributed Celtic’s success to a combination of consistent Champions League qualification and a strong player-trading strategy. Matt O’Riley’s record-breaking move to Brighton set a new benchmark for Scottish football transfers, eclipsing the previous £25m fee received for Jota’s switch to Al Ittihad.
Kit Sales and Merchandising Growth
Celtic’s global appeal was further highlighted in the report, with the club ranking 17th in Europe for kit and merchandising revenue. The Hoops generated €35m (£29.3m) in 2024 from this area, a €14m (£11.7m) rise since 2019.
This growth has been fuelled by Celtic’s continued domestic dominance and their lucrative five-year Adidas partnership, which has helped drive sales. Kit and merchandise revenue accounted for 24% of the club’s total income, placing them just behind both Milan clubs in UEFA’s rankings.
Scotland’s Financial Growth in Europe
Scottish football as a whole also saw positive financial indicators:
•TV revenue increased by 20%, with total domestic revenue reaching €32m (£26.8m).
•Overall revenue across Scottish clubs rose by 14% to €357m (£299m), ranking the league 11th in Europe.
•Gate receipts hit €130m (£109m), placing Scotland seventh in Europe.
•Private ownership remains a key feature, with Scotland the only league in Europe where 100% of clubs are privately owned.
Celtic’s Stability and Future Prospects
The financial strength outlined in the report reinforces Celtic’s position as Scotland’s most commercially successful club. With a strong core squad and assets that can be sold for big fees in the following three windows, the immediate future for the club is very positive.
As UEFA’s figures suggest, Celtic’s financial stability is a rarity in modern football. With Champions League revenue and smart player trading continuing to drive profits, the Hoops are well set for future success both on and off the pitch.
