Celtic in the Champions League 21/22
Here’s what’s in store for Celtic next season.
Celtic will enter the dreaded non-Champions path as they look to return to the main event of European football. Who will they face & can they make it?
Before looking at the opposition, let’s discuss the implications of the Conference Europa League addition. The introduction of this format essentially ensures that if Celtic don’t qualify for the Champions League, they are guaranteed European football after Christmas.
The likelihood of not attaining this would be a larger failure than what we have seen this season. This is because the top 3 out of 4 teams in the Europa group stage move on to a knockout tie. With 3rd place dropping down to the conference.
Even in the worst case where Celtic ended up in the group stages of the conference, I’d highly doubt they wouldn’t finish in the top 2 due to the level of opposition from lower pots.
Coefficient Damage
The damage done by Celtic this season to themselves has been huge, but the long-term effect on our UEFA coefficient will be felt for half a decade. Lennon’s failures mean Celtic will be unseeded as early as the champions league 3rd qualifying round.
Disclaimer
Data provided is subject to change as these were taken on league positions as of 2/3/21. It is assumed that the highest ranked teams & Celtic move through the rounds. Transfermrkt club values added, although not accurate give an indication of the level of opposition.
Non-Champions Path Qualifying Round 2
NC Path QR3
NC Path Playoff
