Affiliation’s concern over Celtic’s current trajectory and lack of ambition | OneFootball

The Affiliation of Celtic Supporters Clubs (ARCSC) has long played a vital role in uniting Celtic fans across the globe, giving registered supporters a collective voice.

theRangers v Celtic,31 August 2025. Photo Vagelis Georgariou (The Celtic Star)

Since its foundation in 1986, the Affiliation has grown from a handful of travel clubs seeking fairer access to match tickets into an established network representing branches in Scotland, Ireland, England, North America, and beyond. Its reach extends far beyond the stands, with regular fundraising, charitable work, reinforcing the Celtic ethos of solidarity and support.

Against that backdrop, any communication issued by the Affiliation carries weight for both members and the wider fanbase.

It is therefore significant that the Affiliation has now released a strongly worded statement expressing concern over the club’s current trajectory –

“The Affiliation of Celtic Supporters Clubs wishes to express growing concern over the club’s current trajectory and apparent lack of ambition – particularly the failure to strengthen the squad ahead of this season’s crucial UEFA Champions League qualifiers, despite robust financial results. This concern has been echoed not only by supporters but also by manager Brendan Rodgers and club captain Callum McGregor. The recurring failure to adequately prepare for key European fixtures has become a troubling pattern, raising serious questions about the club’s strategy, planning, and competitive priorities.”

The statement goes on to call for accountability from the club’s leadership –

Peter Lawwell, Michael Nicholson and Chris McKay watch on during the Scottish Gas Scottish Cup Quarter-Final match between Celtic and Hibernian at Celtic Park on March 09, 2025. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

“We call on CEO Michael Nicholson to provide a clear and direct explanation to supporters and shareholders – outlining the club’s long-term vision, its commitment to genuine footballing ambition, and the rationale behind the lack of visible progress in this summer’s transfer window. At a time when decisive leadership is needed, continued silence only deepens frustration. Celtic’s support demands transparency, accountability, and a plan that reflects both the aspirations of our fanbase and the full potential of Celtic Football Club.”

Celtic CEO Michael Nicholson is sen during the Scottish Premiership match between Celtic FC and Hibernian FC at Celtic Park on May 10, 2025. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

The Affiliation highlighted that these concerns have been amplified by the chaotic final hours of the transfer window, underscoring a pattern of mismanagement and lack of preparation –

“These concerns have been further compounded by the disarray witnessed on the final evening of the transfer window.”

Whether it relates to ticketing, supporter welfare, or broader issues facing the Celtic family, statements like these reflect not only practical concerns but also the values at the heart of the club’s culture. For many, the Affiliation is more than a network—it is a safeguard of tradition and a reminder that the passion of Celtic supporters is best expressed together.

theRangers v Celtic,31 August 2025. Photo Vagelis Georgariou (The Celtic Star)

This latest communication is not one that would have been taken lightly. It is likely the result of considerable discussion, debate, and attempts to engage with the club privately before the need arose to go public.

It is a clear example of the frustration many supporters feel toward the corporate governance of Celtic Football Club. Even fans who had previously been willing to give the Celtic Board and executive team the benefit of the doubt are now voicing their concerns.

It remains to be seen how the club will respond. Organisations such as The Celtic Trust, which meet in Glasgow this evening, may also feel compelled to communicate their perspectives to the wider supporter base and to the club.

There is a growing sense that Celtic supporters are increasingly uniting as a collective—a necessary step if they are to hold the club’s leadership accountable.

theRangers v Celtic,31 August 2025. Photo Vagelis Georgariou (The Celtic Star)

With the Champions League exit and a disappointing transfer window only two of the many issues causing frustration, this groundswell of fan activism could mark a turning point in the ongoing dialogue between supporters and those running the club. If the club show common sense, staying silent for fear of accountability should no longer be considered a suitable approach.

Here’s the statement from the Affiliation in full. Please tell us what you think.

Niall J

Celtic in the Eighties – Out Now! In Celtic shops on Friday…

Celtic in the Eighties by David Potter, out now!

Celtic in the Eighties by the late, great David Potter is published this Friday 5 September by Celtic Star Books. All pre-ordered copies have now been signed by Celtic legend Danny McGrain who has also written the foreword for David Potter’s final book.

These copies have now been posted to everyone who has pre-ordered with copies being send all over the world. It’s been an incredible response, so thank you to each and every one of you who will be receiving your signed book shorty.

Celtic in the Eighties will be available in the Celtic superstore and all other club shops from Friday 5 September. And don’t forget that you can still purchase your copy from Celticstarbooks.com for same day postage. The next 30 orders will also receive a FREE copy of an earlier David Potter book, Alec McNair, Celtic’s Icicle then that wonderful David Potter book will be out of stock.

Order Celtic in the Eighties today, you’ll be glad you did, it’s a fabulous read!

Celtic in the Eighties by David Potter. Foreword by Danny McGrain. Published on Celtic Star Books on 5 September 2025. Click on image to pre-order.

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