Callum McGregor spoke after Celtic’s demanding 2-2 draw with Bologna as attention quickly turned toward what comes next.
The draw in Italy left Celtic with work still to do in the Europa League league phase. Playing for long periods under pressure, the Hoops had to adjust and manage the game as it unfolded, rather than control it.
McGregor’s focus was not only on the result but on what it means going forward. With one European home game still to come, Celtic remain in a position where qualification is within reach.
At the same time, domestic matters are pressing. A league trip to Tynecastle awaits on Sunday, and the turnaround from Europe to league action leaves little room for rest.
He said: (Celtic FC Youtube), “And I think if at the beginning you’re offered a chance to win at home to go through, then you take it and obviously it sets us up really well.
“Full stadium, punters behind us, and then we go and put on a real good show to get us to the next stage, which is after, obviously, a really big game at the weekend.
“So in terms of mentality, banking that and then bringing it out again on Sunday, it’s a big, big week and we have to be ready.
“Just recover as much as you can. Obviously, we’ll be in, we get back later tonight, and then we’ll be in tomorrow and Saturday.
“So it’s just recovery, preparing for the game, and then when the game comes, we have to do everything we can to make sure that we win the game and hopefully send a strong message.”
The comments reflect the balance Celtic must strike over the coming days. Europe remains important, but league form cannot slip with pressure building near the top of the table.
McGregor’s emphasis on mentality speaks to the demands of leadership during a crowded schedule. Managing focus between competitions is as important as managing legs.
Sunday’s visit to Tynecastle presents a different challenge to Bologna. The pace and physical edge of Scottish football will test how well Celtic can recover from a draining night abroad.
Preparation now becomes the priority. Training sessions will be shaped by recovery work, with an eye on sharpness rather than volume.
Celtic know the importance of Utrecht that follows. A full stadium at Celtic Park brings expectation, but also opportunity, with qualification still in their hands.
McGregor’s words suggest a strong mentality within the squad. The focus is on what can be controlled, from recovery through to performance on the day.
The Bologna draw showed Celtic can adapt when the game shifts. That adaptability will be required again as the week unfolds.
For the captain, leadership now means guiding the group through a demanding period. Keeping standards steady matters as much as chasing results.
As Celtic move from Europe back into league action, the message is simple. Recover well, prepare properly, and be ready to deliver when it matters.
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