Celtic Pre-Season Schedule Revealed: Rodgers Ready to Take On Premier League Giants and European Tests

Celtic’s preparations for the 2025/26 campaign are shaping up to be their most challenging in recent years, with manager Brendan Rodgers setting the stage for a high-intensity pre-season. The Hoops are set to participate in a prestigious summer tournament in Italy that will see them face Serie A newcomers Como and Dutch giants Ajax on July 24 and 26, respectively. These fixtures add to an already demanding schedule that includes a clash with Premier League side Newcastle United and a training camp in Portugal.

This summer’s preparations reflect Rodgers’ intent to have his squad ready not only for domestic dominance but also for European competition. The tournament in Como represents a key step in that strategy. Held in the picturesque lakeside city of Como, the mini-tournament promises a high level of competition and offers Celtic the chance to test themselves against two sides with distinct footballing styles.

Tough Tests in Italy

Como’s promotion to Serie A has brought them back into the spotlight, and they have ambitious plans both on and off the pitch. Managed by former Spain international and footballing icon Cesc Fabregas, the Italian side is rapidly building a reputation for attractive, possession based football. Fabregas, known for his vision and tactical intelligence as a player, appears to be instilling the same values in his team.

Adding to the narrative is the possible reunion with former Celtic loanee Alex Valle. The Spanish left-back spent the first half of last season at Parkhead, making 19 appearances and earning praise for his composure and attacking support from the flanks. Valle made a permanent move to Como in January and has continued to develop. Reports suggest the Italian club are keen to activate a £5 million release clause to secure his services long-term. His presence in the fixture could provide an added layer of intrigue for Celtic fans eager to see how the young full-back has progressed.

The tournament also features Ajax, a club steeped in European history and known for producing world-class talent. Despite a turbulent couple of seasons, the Dutch outfit remains a formidable force, and facing them in pre-season will be a litmus test for Celtic’s readiness on the continental stage. With their fluid attacking style and emphasis on youth, Ajax could expose gaps or confirm strengths in the Celtic squad, giving Rodgers valuable insights ahead of the competitive fixtures.

Busy Pre-Season Ahead

The Italian tournament isn’t Celtic’s only high-profile commitment this summer. The club’s pre-season officially begins with a fixture against Cork City on July 8 in Ireland. This game, while likely to feature a mix of first team and fringe players, will offer a gentle start before the tempo ramps up.

Following that, the squad will travel to Portugal for a warm weather training camp. These camps have become a regular feature of Rodgers’ pre-season regimes, providing not just optimal physical preparation but also a chance to build team chemistry and assess tactical nuances in a focused environment.

One of the most eagerly anticipated games of the summer will take place on July 19, when Celtic welcome Newcastle United to Celtic Park. The Magpies, buoyed by their resurgence in the Premier League and European ambitions under Eddie Howe, will offer the Hoops a stern test. This match is more than just a friendly it is a benchmark against English opposition and a showcase of how far Rodgers’ side have progressed in their preparations.

A Statement of Intent

Rodgers’ pre-season schedule is no accident. Facing teams from the Eredivisie, Serie A, and the Premier League is a deliberate move to ensure Celtic are not just physically ready for the season ahead but also mentally prepared to face the diverse challenges of domestic and European competition. Each fixture brings a different style and level of opposition, offering tactical variety and opportunities to fine-tune formations, partnerships, and individual performances.

Moreover, these matches will provide opportunities for younger players to stake a claim for more regular involvement. Pre-season has historically been a time for breakthrough stars to emerge, and with players like Rocco Vata, Daniel Kelly, and Odin Thiago Holm looking to impress, the coming weeks could shape Celtic’s squad depth for the year ahead.

Looking Ahead

Celtic fans can look forward to an action-packed summer full of meaningful friendlies and exciting storylines. From the homecoming of a former loanee to testing themselves against a Champions League calibre Ajax and Premier League heavyweights Newcastle, this pre-season is designed to sharpen the team and galvanize the support.

As the fixtures draw nearer, all eyes will be on Rodgers and his ability to integrate new signings, extract the best from his squad, and set the tone for a campaign that promises to be as demanding as it is ambitious. The road to silverware begins in July and this year, it runs through Ireland, Portugal, Italy, and back home to Celtic Park.