The Old Firm rivalry is at the heart of every Scottish football fan. This event serves as a stamp for bragging rights. It extends beyond the usual sports by encompassing religion, politics and history within Scotland and the city of Glasgow. Most matches between Rangers and Celtic are fiercely competitive, with each team representing its distinct culture.
As the 2025/26 season kicked off, the two teams were no longer fighting for glory but pushing the league into new heights. Their focus was no longer about the trophies. Each team sought new tactics and recruitment strategies to support their European ambitions. Let’s take a look at how the season is progressing so far.
Early Season Struggle and European Disappointment
A new season is an opportunity to make another mark, but it usually comes with new challenges and expectations. Although Celtic and Rangers started the campaign with promising wins, their resolve has been put to the test. However, the season still promises a lot of drama, which is the culture of the league, as there’s no clear winner at the moment.
The season started well for Celtic after three consecutive wins, followed by a draw against their arch-rivals. With the new coach and tactics, Rangers had a frustrating start to the season after drawing three matches in a row before the derby. Despite Celtic having a six-point lead before the game, both teams were facing several challenges.
The struggle was not only in the local league but also in the European competitions. Both teams were eliminated early in the UEFA Champions League qualifiers. Celtic were handed an early exit by Kairat Almaty on penalties. This wasn’t only a defeat but also a psychological blow that added to the team’s pressure. For fans looking to bet Champions League this season, the absence of Rangers and Celtic highlights just how high the level of competition has become in Europe.
The campaign was even more humiliating for Rangers as they suffered a 9-1 aggregate defeat against Club Brugge. Even after getting a new coach, the loss cast a shadow on Russel Martin’s tactical approach. The defeat exposed a weak defensive structure and took a dent out of the team’s finances.
Tactical Approaches and Managerial Pressures
For Rangers, Russel Martín, the new coach, introduced a new tactical philosophy similar to that of Pep Guardiola. This was met with scepticism, with frustration showing up among most fans who want more than trophies. There were concerns about the team’s midfield and defensive organisation. Martin’s approach prioritised keeping the ball and playing out from the back.
Several experts have challenged the decision, questioning whether it will work in the competitive Scottish Premiership. His gameplay has been further securitised following the early exit from the Champions League and the team’s lack of wins in the first four matches. Although the Rangers board still backs Martin, a banner recently appeared calling for his resignation.
Across the city, Celtic’s manager, Brendan Rodgers, has shown his frustration following the club’s transfers. He particularly lamented the lack of ambition in the players’ market. Moreover, his relationship with the Celtic board is still uncertain. This raises concerns over his future at the club. Although they performed well in the local league, there’s pressure for permanence in the European competition.
Player Performances and Transfer Sagas
The open transfer window, which occurred before and after the start of the new season, saw new faces join, while others returned. Rangers were very active, securing the services of Oscar Cortes, Oliver Antman, Djeidi Gassama and Mikey Moore.
For Celtic, the return of Kieran Tierney was a highlight, but there’s uncertainty about the future of their striker, Adam Idah. New Celtic players, Michel-Ange Balikwisha and Marcelo Saracchi, joined the team after the Champions League exit. This raised some concerns over the timing and effectiveness of the move.
Apart from transfers, injuries were also a key concern for both teams, as they would shape their approach to play. Ranger’s top scorer Cyriel Dessers is sidelined due to an injury, while the captain James Tavernier has dropped to the bench.
These absences can sometimes lead to a team overhaul. This includes the starting lineup and tactical plans, which depend on their opponents. As a manager, it adds to the challenge they’re already facing.
Title Race Implications
As stated earlier, Celtic is six points ahead of Rangers, showing they’re well on their way to clinching the title. Analysts favour them to win the league title, given their successful performances and strong starting position. However, the derby that ended in a draw still shows the strengths that Rangers have.
History still tells us the Scottish Premiership is full of drama and rivalries. The early season has highlighted the potential vulnerabilities of both teams and raised questions about their tactics. Still, the Old Firm clubs will continue to improve throughout the season with fierce competition on the way. The early exit from Europe also prompts them to return even stronger.
