The wait is over.
Celtic’s preparations for the 2026/27 campaign officially got under way on Friday morning as the first-team squad returned to Lennoxtown for the start of pre-season.
SNS photographers were on hand to capture the arrivals, with several senior players among the first to report for duty.
So far, Dane Murray, Cameron Carter-Vickers, Luke McCowan, Paulo Bernardo, Michel-Ange Balikwisha, James Forrest and captain Callum McGregor have all been pictured arriving at the training ground before 10 am on Friday morning.
Colby Donavan was pictured by Celtic, too.
š The Bhoys are back!#CelticFCš pic.twitter.com/dvSY6HqysC
ā Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) June 26, 2026
Their return marks the beginning of what promises to be a hugely important summer for Martin O’Neill and his coaching staff.
With Champions League qualification looming and a significant rebuild expected, the hard work starts now.
There are still plenty of players expected to check in throughout the day.
Arne Engels, who was not away on international duty, is among those anticipated to return to Lennoxtown. It’s entirely possible he arrived outside the window when photographers were present, with more images and updates likely to emerge as the day progresses.
Several first-team players remain absent due to World Cup commitments.
Daizen Maeda, Auston Trusty, Alistair Johnston, Benjamin Nygren, Sebastian Tounekti, Anthony Ralston and Kieran Tierney are among those representing their countries and will be given additional time off once their tournaments conclude before linking back up with the squad.
The return of the players also coincides with confirmation of Martin O’Neill’s backroom team.
After weeks of uncertainty, Celtic announced on Friday morning that Shaun Maloney, Mark Fotheringham and Stephen McManus will all continue in their coaching roles.
Attention now turns firmly to preparations on the pitch.
Celtic’s first pre-season fixture is against Shelbourne in Dublin before trips to Portugal and home friendlies against Middlesbrough and AC Milan.
Supporters will now be hoping the images from Lennoxtown are soon followed by another sight – new signings arriving through the front door.
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