Stephen McGinn has shared his thoughts on Celtic’s recent struggles, suggesting that the team’s loss of attacking edge following the departure of Kyogo Furuhashi and Nicolas Kühn has played a key role in their dip in form.
McGinn reflected on how quickly things have changed at Celtic Park since the summer.
Just months ago, Brendan Rodgers’ side were chasing records and playing free-flowing football. Now, with goals harder to come by and key players gone, questions are being asked about what’s gone wrong. McGinn believes that despite keeping much of last season’s core intact, Celtic have looked short of confidence and creativity in key areas.
Kyogo’s move in January left a gap that has yet to be properly filled, while Kühn’s exit in the summer further limited their attacking options. McGinn says the situation has created a sense of unease among supporters, who fear this is more than just a blip in form.
As Celtic prepare for a decisive run of fixtures, including crucial games at Tynecastle and Hampden, McGinn says it’s a period that could define their season.
He said: (Go Radio Football Show), “They’re worried it’s not just a temporary crisis of confidence — that it might last until January, when there’s finally a chance to fix it. It’s amazing to think that just four or five months ago, Brendan Rodgers was openly targeting the most goals ever scored by a Celtic team in a season.
“Now, without the goals of [Kyogo], and with Kuhn out until January, they haven’t really lost many senior players, yet they’re still relying on much of last season’s squad. So you do wonder why there’s such a deep sense of negativity.
“And as I said, they’re heading into a run of games where that match at Tynecastle and the semi-final at Hampden are absolutely make-or-break.”
McGinn’s comments echo the growing frustration among fans who feel Celtic’s summer business left them short in attack. While Rodgers has spoken about patience and building momentum, the lack of cutting edge has become increasingly evident.
The next few weeks will test Celtic’s ability to respond under pressure. Wins at Tynecastle and Hampden would go a long way to restoring belief and easing doubts surrounding the team’s direction.
If they can rediscover their rhythm and turn performances into results, McGinn believes Rodgers’ side still have the quality to turn the season around. But for now, he says, the mood around Celtic Park remains cautious, and only results will change that.
