Ahead of Celtic’s Champions League clash with Bayern Munich, Brendan Rodgers sat down with Peter Schmeichel to discuss what makes the Celtic Park atmosphere so unique.

The former Manchester United and Denmark goalkeeper, now working as a pundit, pressed Rodgers on how the Hoops compare to some of the world’s biggest clubs when it comes to matchday passion.

Rodgers didn’t hesitate to highlight the raw emotion that fuels Celtic Park on European nights, acknowledging that while the club doesn’t have the financial muscle of England’s top sides, its stature in world football is unquestionable.

“I think it’s the raw passion, Peter. Obviously, Celtic doesn’t have the money and resources of a Premier League club—or even a bottom Premier League club. But in stature and status, this is a club that’s one of the biggest in the world,” Rodgers told CBS Sports.

“A big part of that is the support base. There’s just a real raw passion for the game. There’s obviously a big expectation here, but on nights like this, it’s just incredible.”

The ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ Debate

Rodgers, of course, is a manager who has experienced both Celtic and Liverpool from the dugout, two clubs famous for their spine-tingling renditions of You’ll Never Walk Alone. Naturally, Schmeichel saw the opportunity to ask Rodgers which club does it better—a question the Celtic boss carefully dodged.

“I think it’s just preference, isn’t it? Jamie (Carragher) will say Anfield, of course. Nuri Sahin, I’m sure—or maybe not—but Nuri would probably say Dortmund,” Rodgers responded.

“I just think it’s a really special anthem. I’ve been lucky enough to have managed both Liverpool and Celtic, and both clubs sing it in an amazing way. The passion behind it is superb.”

Peter Schmeichel admitted that Paradise is the only place he actually enjoys hearing the song—a rare admission from a former Old Trafford legend who has not much love for Liverpool.

“I have to say, this is the only place I actually like that song!” he quipped.

While Celtic ultimately fell short in a 2-1 defeat to Bayern, there was no denying that the Parkhead crowd delivered once again, proving why it remains one of the most revered atmospheres in world football.

Watch the whole interaction below.

“It’s the raw passion for the game.” 🗣️

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers reflects on what sets the club apart and their preparations ahead of their match against Bayern Munich 🥹 pic.twitter.com/9qMZUOEGYC

— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) February 12, 2025