Celtic’s Increasing Fixture Load: What’s the Solution?

Something's gotta give

Celtic Football Club has always been a team that plays a high volume of matches, but in the past season, the schedule has been particularly intense. From November through February, the team played an exhausting number of games, stretching the squad to its limits. And this is only the beginning. Looking ahead, the number of games will increase even further, with two extra fixtures next season and even more the following year due to the reintroduction of Champions League qualifiers.

The challenge doesn’t stop there. UEFA has begun negotiations for its 2027-2030 television rights deal, and it’s clear that they want a significant increase in revenue. A major factor in achieving this will be expanding the number of matches in European competition. FIFA’s introduction of the new Club World Cup, which will see elite European clubs benefit financially, means UEFA needs to match that with bigger earnings of its own. The simplest way to do that? More games.

It wouldn't be surprising if the Champions League group stage expanded from the current eight matches to ten per season. Add that to Celtic’s commitments in the Scottish Premiership, domestic cup competitions, and international call-ups for key players, and the strain is obvious. So, what can be done to manage this increasing workload? Because it’s not just the players who are affected—fans are feeling the burden too.

The Impact on Players: Fatigue, Injuries, and Development

For the squad, the growing fixture list presents multiple challenges. More games mean less recovery time, increased risk of injuries, and a lack of opportunities for proper training. Football is not just about playing matches; it’s about preparation, tactics, and player development. When matches come thick and fast, there’s little time for coaching between games.

We’ve already seen the impact of a congested fixture list this season. Injuries have played a big role, forcing Celtic to rely on squad rotation more than ever. Key players have had to play through fatigue, affecting their performances. If this trend continues, it could lead to burnout and long-term fitness issues.

Celtic, like many clubs, may need to rethink how they manage their squad. Investing in greater squad depth will be essential. That doesn’t just mean signing more players, but ensuring that those in the squad are of a high enough quality to step in seamlessly when required. The days of relying on a core group of 14 or 15 players are long gone—modern football demands a squad of 20+ capable first-team players.

The Burden on Fans: Financial and Personal Costs

Football isn’t just about the players; it’s also about the supporters. Celtic’s incredible fanbase follows the team through thick and thin, but there’s no denying that more games come with a cost—literally.

The financial strain is real. Extra matches mean more tickets, more travel expenses, and higher accommodation costs for away games. For those who follow the team in Europe, midweek trips to the continent don’t come cheap. And even for home games, season ticket holders may face increased prices as the number of matches rises.

Beyond the financial impact, there’s also a time commitment. Football is a passion, but people have lives outside the game. More games mean less time for family, work, and other personal commitments. For some, it’s manageable in the short term, but over time, the demands of an expanded football calendar can take a toll on relationships and overall well-being.

How Can Celtic Adapt?

Given these challenges, Celtic must find solutions to navigate an increasingly demanding schedule. Here are a few key areas to focus on:

1. Squad Management and Rotation

Brendan Rodgers and his coaching staff will need to fully embrace squad rotation. That means ensuring every player in the squad is match-ready, rather than over-relying on a small group of starters. Developing younger players and using them effectively in domestic competitions could help keep senior players fresh for bigger European nights.

2. Smarter Recruitment

With more games on the horizon, Celtic’s recruitment strategy must evolve. Signing players who can slot into the team seamlessly without a drop in quality will be crucial. It may also mean targeting players with strong fitness records and versatility, reducing the risk of injury crises derailing the season.

3. Improved Sports Science and Recovery

More matches mean more emphasis on recovery. Ensuring players have access to the best medical care, recovery techniques, and fitness programs will be vital. The club has already invested in sports science, but further advancements in player conditioning will help mitigate the risks associated with a packed schedule.

4. Fan Considerations

The club must also be mindful of supporters. While ticket prices are largely dictated by market forces, offering flexible ticketing options, travel packages, and other incentives could help ease the financial burden on fans.

5. Fixture Planning and Lobbying

At a broader level, Celtic and other clubs facing fixture congestion should work with governing bodies to ensure sensible scheduling. For example, domestic cup replays could be reconsidered, and international breaks could be structured in a way that minimizes disruption.

What’s Next?

Football is changing, and the demands on clubs like Celtic will only grow in the coming years. More European games are inevitable, and the club must be prepared for this new reality. That means adapting squad management, investing in player recovery, and finding ways to support the fans who make it all possible.

Something has to give. Whether it’s the way the squad is built, how fans are accommodated, or how competitions are structured, adjustments must be made. If not, we risk a scenario where both players and supporters are pushed to their limits.

Celtic has always thrived on big European nights, and an expanded Champions League offers new opportunities. But if the club wants to compete at the highest level without burning out its players or pricing out its fans, careful planning and strategic thinking will be essential.