Celtic goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel has addressed the criticism he faced following Celtic’s Scottish Cup final defeat to Aberdeen, making it clear he embraces the pressure that comes with the position.
The 38-year-old, who has enjoyed a standout season with the Hoops and played a crucial role in the League Cup final win over Rangers earlier in the campaign, was at the centre of scrutiny after the final loss at Hampden.
He said: (Ekstra Bladet), “I have never read what the media writes about me and I don’t follow social media either, because there will always be opinions, there will always be criticism and praise, so you have to tackle it all the same way.
“That’s life as a goalkeeper. I love the pressure and the fact that you always live on the edge. That’s just how it is to be a goalkeeper. It’s always the smallest margins that determine whether you have a decisive role.
“When towards the end of the final against Aberdeen we blew a kick that could have decided the game in our favour, it wasn’t a focus point after the game. It was my mistake that was talked about. It’s just life as a goalkeeper.”
Schmeichel proved to be a key player for Celtic during the 2024/25 season and was vital in the Scottish League Cup final win over Rangers earlier in the campaign.
The 38-year-old’s mental strength clearly shines through in the interview and that is perhaps a key reason why he is still playing at a high level.
While Celtic fell short in the Scottish Cup final, Schmeichel’s save during the season, including key saves on the way to silverware earlier in the year, highlight his value to Brendan Rodgers’ squad.
His comments highlight how tough it is being a goalkeeper, mistakes get all the attention while good moments can be forgotten. But for Schmeichel, that just comes with the territory.
