Callum McGregor is poised to redefine Celtic’s narrative in the Champions League, asserting as captain that there will be “no more tales of misfortune.
“Callum McGregor asserts that Celtic is resolutely committed to advancing into the quarterfinal stages and dispelling their reputation as perennial contenders in the Champions League. The captain of the Hoops is weary of recounting tales of misfortune against Europe’s elite teams.
They have the opportunity to secure a position in the next stage of the competition with a match to spare, provided they can decisively overcome the Swiss champions, Young Boys, in Glasgow on Wednesday evening. Celtic has not advanced beyond the group stage since Neil Lennon’s team achieved a remarkable victory over Barcelona en route to the Round of 16 in 2013.
McGregor is determined to alter the current narrative and stated, “It would hold significant importance, undoubtedly.” We have made numerous attempts, the majority of which have not been successful. This represents a significant advancement for the club. Everyone aspires to be included in it.
We have performed exceptionally well thus far; however, we aspire to avoid being recognised as the team that nearly succeeded. We believe that we have assembled a cohesive team, characterised by a specific profile of players and a squad that is well-positioned to achieve success.
Celtic remains undefeated at home in the Champions League this season, having secured victories against Slovan Bratislava and RB Leipzig, along with a draw against Club Brugge. Parkhead was abuzz during the emphatic victory over Leipzig, and McGregor is eager for a similar outcome.
He stated, “It is to be hoped that this is the objective.” We frequently discuss the necessity of performing exceptionally well at this level, and I believe that on that particular night, we executed our tasks with near perfection.
As excellent as we’ve been in a night like this. We must strive to achieve a comparable level of performance and exercise precision in capitalising on opportunities when we are leading in the match. We must seize the opportunities presented to us and demonstrate maturity in our ball-handling as well.
We have accomplished a considerable amount in this regard and have performed quite well. “We simply need to deliver it.” McGregor will not underestimate Young Boys, acknowledging that European teams have become increasingly aware of Celtic’s capabilities following the match against Leipzig.
He noted that both Brugge and Dinamo Zagreb have adopted strategies aimed at thwarting the Scots. Young Boys may endeavour to replicate this approach; however, the captain remarked, “I believe that teams, particularly following the match against Leipzig, are perhaps affording us a greater degree of respect.”
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