Martin O'Neill's hopes of securing fresh recruits for Celtic remain intact despite the club's shock elimination from the Champions League play-offs on Tuesday. The Scottish Premiership champions fell to Austrian side LASK 5-4 on aggregate after a 5-1 defeat following extra time, a result that sends them into the Europa League instead of the continent's premier club competition.
The manager acknowledged the setback but expressed determination to bolster his squad before the transfer window closes next week. Four players have already arrived at Parkhead this summer—Kasper Hogh, Camilo Duran, Haissem Hassan and Mika Baur—yet O'Neill believes more additions remain possible despite missing out on Champions League football.
"I'm hoping that's not the case," O'Neill said when asked whether the European demotion would hamper recruitment efforts. "We're still trying to get some players in, we would need a few in obviously to supplement the squad. I'm hoping that we can get some people in before the transfer deadline."
The manager highlighted the financial and prestige advantages the Champions League typically offers when attracting talent.
"The Champions League is a big carrot for, particularly a lot of younger players. The prestige is not there the same [in the Europa League], it's still a great competition. Obviously, the finance is still the big thing."
What targets are Celtic pursuing?
Celtic have been linked with several potential signings as they seek to strengthen before the deadline. According to reports, the club reached an agreement in principle with Slovan Liberec over attacking midfielder Ermin Mahmić, with a fee around €8 million plus €2 million in add-ons under discussion. Additionally, Celtic have held talks with Blackburn Rovers regarding goalkeeper Balazs Toth, with negotiations described as advanced and a transfer fee expected to settle around £4 million.
Midfielder Reo Hatate, meanwhile, has rejected interest from clubs in Austria, Greece and the United States, signalling his intention to remain at the club despite the Champions League exit.
How did the LASK defeat unfold?
Celtic's elimination represents a major disappointment for O'Neill, who saw his side squander a commanding position. At half-time in the second leg, the Scottish club held a 4-1 aggregate advantage and appeared destined for the group stage. However, a collapse in the second half allowed LASK to mount an improbable comeback, with the tie eventually decided in extra time.
O'Neill reflected on the performance with candour, accepting responsibility for the tactical approach.
"We did not do well in the second half. The result's the most important thing and we got beaten. I'm obviously disappointed with myself. I have to really analyse it again. We could've maybe defended our box a wee bit better. I have to look at my own part before I look at anybody else's."
The manager acknowledged that Celtic should have secured qualification long before the final whistle.
"We should've been out of sight by half-time," he said, reflecting on the commanding first-half display.He stressed the need for rapid recovery, adding:
"You have to recover pretty quickly. You really have to. We have to show real character."
What does the Europa League draw mean for Celtic?
Following their Champions League exit, Celtic have been drawn with Benfica and Marseille in the Europa League, competing in the new league-phase format that begins in September. The competition, while lacking the prestige and financial rewards of the Champions League, remains a significant European platform.
This marks the second consecutive season Celtic have failed to reach the Champions League group stage. Last summer, the club faced similar criticism from supporters over transfer activity ahead of the play-offs, which they also lost against Kairat Almaty. Notable departures this summer included influential players Daizen Maeda and Arne Engels, who left for Ipswich Town and West Ham United respectively.
What happens next for Celtic?
Celtic's immediate focus turns to domestic competition, with a Scottish Premiership fixture against Falkirk scheduled for Saturday 29 August. This match comes before the summer transfer window closes next week, leaving O'Neill a narrow window to complete any remaining business. The manager's ability to secure additional signings in the coming days will be crucial to maintaining squad morale and competitive depth as Celtic adjust to their Europa League campaign.
