What Celtic have achieved over nearly twenty years is nothing short of remarkable and should never be taken for granted.
Season after season, the club has continued to lift trophies, to the point where winning Trebles has become almost routine — not because of arrogance, but because of their sheer dominance. That sustained success has also contributed to Rangers’ ongoing struggles, with the latest chapter unfolding over the weekend as the Ibrox board dismissed Russell Martin.
Wayne Rooney may not have managed in Glasgow, but he understands the demands of competing at the top level. Speaking on talkSPORT, the former England striker said he isn’t surprised by the pressure surrounding Celtic and Rangers, especially following Martin’s sacking.
Martin’s dismissal was ruthless — something Rooney can relate to after facing similar setbacks in his own managerial career. He empathised with the former Rangers boss, acknowledging that the expectations at both Glasgow giants are unforgiving.
“It’s tough,” Rooney said when asked about Rangers fans’ reaction. “It’s their club, and I’m sure Russell will admit it just didn’t work out. The results weren’t there — I’ve been through that myself, and it’s not easy. It’s a lonely experience, but sometimes supporters go a bit too far. Still, that passion is what makes football what it is, even if it can cross the line. I feel sorry for him — he’s a very good coach, I’ve gone up against him before. He just hasn’t found the right fit at Rangers.”
Rooney added that the pressure to win in Scotland is unique: “No disrespect to the other clubs, but if you’re managing Rangers or Celtic and you’re not winning, you’re under fire. That’s just the reality. Sadly, he’s lost his job — but that’s football. Unless you’re winning, you’re always at risk.”
Celtic’s domestic dominance dates back to the early 2000s when Martin O’Neill guided them to their third Treble in history. Since then, the silverware has barely stopped coming. Even since Rangers’ return to the Premiership, Celtic have claimed more Trebles than their rivals have league titles — and they were close to adding another last season.
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