Former Celtic winger Aiden McGeady was asked to compare the current Celtic squad to the teams he featured in during his time at the club from 2004 to 2010. While McGeady praised the depth and quality of Ange Postecoglou’s and now Brendan Rodgers’ side, he suggested the level of domestic competition isn’t quite the same as what his Celtic teams faced.
Speaking to a local media outlet, McGeady remarked, “The squad Celtic have now is impressive. There’s quality in every position, and the competition for places pushes players to another level. But I’d argue the competition in the league isn’t quite what it was when I was playing.”
McGeady highlighted how during his era, Rangers consistently challenged Celtic for titles, while other teams like Hearts and Aberdeen posed significant threats. “Back then, there was a real battle every week. Now, it feels like Celtic are streets ahead of everyone else most of the time.”
Despite the lack of fierce competition, McGeady acknowledged the club’s European ambitions and the importance of maintaining high standards. “It’s great to see Celtic dominating domestically, but the true test of this team will always be Europe. That’s where the best measure of success lies.”
McGeady’s comments underscore the ongoing conversation about the strength of Scottish football and how it impacts the perception of Celtic’s domestic dominance.
Aiden McGeady, who played under renowned Celtic managers Martin O’Neill and Gordon Strachan, highlighted European success as a defining feature of his time at the club, alongside the domestic trophies he helped secure.
However, when asked to compare the current Celtic squad to the teams he was part of, McGeady found it difficult to make a direct comparison. Speaking to Steven Thompson during a recent discussion, McGeady admitted, “It’s hard to compare eras because the challenges were different. We had tough domestic competition and were consistently competing in Europe against top sides.”
McGeady pointed to the UEFA Champions League nights as standout moments under both O’Neill and Strachan. “Those were some of the best memories of my career—going up against the likes of AC Milan, Barcelona, and Manchester United. The expectation was high, and the competition pushed us to be at our best every week.”
While he praised Celtic’s current squad depth and domestic dominance, McGeady noted that the challenges faced today—particularly the level of competition in Scotland—aren’t quite the same. “There’s no denying the talent in the current squad, but back then, the league was more competitive, and Europe was always the barometer of success.”
His reflections highlight the evolution of Celtic’s challenges and the enduring pressure to perform on the European stage.
Aiden McGeady: Current Celtic Team Has It Easier But Still a Joy to Watch
Speaking on BBC Sportscene, former Celtic winger Aiden McGeady reflected on the current Celtic side, offering praise for their performances but noting key differences in competition compared to his era.
“They are not as good, I don’t think… oh sorry, I’m kidding,” McGeady joked when asked to compare Brendan Rodgers’ team to the sides he played in.
“It’s a funny one because the competition isn’t quite the same from when we all played, especially from Rangers. But Celtic can only beat what’s in front of them,” he continued.
Despite the lessened domestic challenge, McGeady was full of admiration for the current squad, particularly their dominance this season. “At the minute, they are convincing and are going to wrap the title up very early, I think. They’ve been so good going forward and have been defensively very good as well.”
The former fan favorite also highlighted the squad’s depth and style of play. “The way the team are playing and the strength in depth they have got, they are a joy to watch.”
McGeady’s comments underline the balance between acknowledging Celtic’s modern dominance and recognizing the unique challenges of his own playing days.
It was a bit unfair for Steven Thompson to put Aiden McGeady on the spot during BBC Sportscene, especially as McGeady is still finding his feet in punditry.
Despite the awkwardness of the moment, it’s clear that McGeady had no intention of disrespecting the current Celtic side. His comments reflected admiration for the team’s style of play and dominance under Brendan Rodgers, rather than diminishing their achievements.
McGeady made it clear he enjoys watching this Celtic side, describing them as a joy to watch and praising their attacking brilliance and defensive solidity.
While competition in Scotland may not be at the same level as it was during McGeady’s playing days, Celtic’s current form highlights their strength and consistency. With Rodgers at the helm and other sides struggling to keep up, the Hoops are in a fantastic position to secure silverware early in the season.
However, with a busy fixture schedule ahead, Brendan Rodgers and his squad remain firmly grounded. The upcoming Champions League clash against Dinamo Zagreb on Tuesday night presents a crucial test, demanding focus and precision.
While Celtic’s domestic dominance has been impressive, European nights bring their own challenges, and Rodgers will be keen to ensure his players maintain their momentum. With key players like Arne Engels and Alistair Johnston in fine form, the Hoops will look to capitalize on their current rhythm and secure a result that keeps their European ambitions alive.
This balance between domestic and European duties will be pivotal as Celtic navigate a demanding winter schedule.