Callum McGregor believes Celtic are closing in on a major milestone in Europe.
Standing in their way are Kairat Almaty, with a place among Europe’s elite and a £40 million boost at stake. It’s a massive challenge, but also a chance to show how far this team has come.
Last season ended in heartbreak, with Celtic knocked out in Munich by the final kick of the game. That defeat still lingers, and McGregor knows it will be fresh in the minds of the players.
He’s confident, though, that this group can take the next step. He believes a strong performance in Wednesday’s first leg could set the tone for another deep run in Europe.
He said: (RecordSport), “I think so, I think obviously we’ve proved it. Certainly towards the latter half of last season’s campaign.
“But to be considered a good team you have to keep doing it, you can’t just do it once, you need to keep doing it, keep proving that you’re good at the level.
“Hopefully, the lads will have felt that over the last 12 months and will arrive into this game with the belief that we can get through the tie and be in there proper again.
“We need to do a lot right but I believe when we defend properly and we’re aggressive in the game, then we’re a good side and we can give everybody a game.”
The pressure is massive. Reaching the Champions League league phase would bring in around £40 million for Celtic and mark a historic fourth straight season at that level.
McGregor’s role will be key. He’s made it clear that doing it once isn’t enough, you have to keep proving yourself if you want to stay at the top. That mindset will be crucial in a tie like this.
To take control, Celtic need a strong first leg at Parkhead. McGregor has called for the team to defend well, play on the front foot, and approach the match with belief.
With kick-off just days away, everyone inside Lennoxtown knows what’s at stake. It’s now about performance and holding their nerve when it counts.
