Statistical Expert Makes Striking Prediction, Arguing That Hearts and Celtic Are Unlikely to Emerge as Premiership Champions

A leading football data analyst has sparked debate across Scottish football after declaring that neither Hearts nor Celtic are showing the form required to win this season’s Scottish Premiership title. The bold assessment, shared widely on X, adds a surprising twist to the developing title race and directly challenges expectations surrounding two of the league’s most prominent sides.

The statement comes from the analytics account Football Meets Data, a platform known for using performance metrics, probability models, and long-range forecasting to project league outcomes. Their latest analysis suggests that both clubs—each at different stages of their respective campaigns are falling well short of the consistency needed to sustain a genuine title push as the season moves deeper into its decisive months.

While Celtic have long been regarded as perennial contenders, and Hearts briefly threatened to disrupt the Old Firm’s dominance earlier in the campaign, the new data paints a much more uncertain picture. According to Football Meets Data, the current trends point clearly away from both clubs lifting the trophy come the end of the season.

Analyst: “I Don’t See Hearts or Celtic Winning the League”

The post that ignited the discussion was characteristically blunt.

In their assessment, the analyst wrote:

“Based on form, consistency and underlying numbers, I don’t see Hearts winning the league. And I also don’t see Celtic doing enough to finish as champions this season.”

The statement, which quickly gained traction, immediately raised questions about the direction of the Premiership title race. Many supporters were stunned to see Celtic included in the verdict, given their pedigree and past dominance. Others focused on Hearts, who earlier in the season appeared to be building unexpected momentum after a run of strong performances.

But the analyst’s reasoning, when expanded later in a follow-up post, was based on what they described as “concerning patterns” in both clubs’ performances patterns that undermine any suggestions of a credible title challenge from either side.

Hearts’ Decline Since Celtic Victory Highlighted

One of the key metrics cited in the analysis relates to Hearts’ dramatic loss of form following their high-profile victory over Celtic. At one stage, Hearts were eight points clear in a strong league position, generating enthusiasm among supporters and drawing praise for their structure and discipline under Derek McInnes.

However, Football Meets Data highlighted a stark downturn: since that win, Hearts have managed just one victory, a slump that significantly damages their statistical outlook.

The analyst argued that this level of inconsistency especially during the winter period when form typically stabilises among serious contenders has effectively removed Hearts from any realistic title equation.

They added “The numbers are going backwards. The momentum that was there has evaporated. A team with this pattern of results does not win the league.”

McInnes, who has been keen to temper expectations, now faces increased scrutiny as the analytical community casts doubt on the trajectory of his side.

Celtic Also Criticised for Lack of Title-Winning Rhythm

Perhaps more surprising was the analyst’s blunt assessment of Celtic. Despite sitting near the top of the table and benefiting from a stronger squad than most rivals, Football Meets Data pointed to several statistical markers that they believe are “deeply concerning” for a team expecting to reclaim the Premiership crown.

Among the issues identified are fluctuating defensive performances, inconsistent chance creation, and what the analyst described as “an absence of dominance in key matches compared to previous title-winning seasons.”

While not suggesting Celtic are in crisis, the expert argued that their metrics “look more like a team finishing second or third” rather than one leading a title charge. The conclusion, though controversial among supporters, adds a new layer to the debate over Celtic’s long-term form under their current management.

Fans React as Title Race Narrative Shifts

The reaction online has been immediate and divided. Celtic fans criticised the analysis as premature, noting that the club often finds its strongest rhythm in the latter stages of the campaign. Others insisted that writing off Celtic, given their record, is “dangerous and unrealistic.”

Hearts supporters, meanwhile, offered a more mixed response. Some agreed that the team’s form has dipped sharply, while others accused the analyst of overlooking the resilience and fighting spirit that McInnes has instilled this season. A few insisted that the dip in form is temporary and that the club remains capable of a resurgence.

But the broader Scottish football community was energised by the idea that the title race may be more open or more unpredictable than previously thought.

What the Analysis Means for the Premiership Race

Although the analyst stopped short of naming a clear favourite for the trophy, the central message was unambiguous: the Premiership title, based on current trends, is unlikely to be won by either Hearts or Celtic.

This perspective injects renewed intrigue into the league narrative. Rangers’ improving form, coupled with strong runs from teams below the top three, suggests a potentially shifting balance of power. But without naming an alternative favourite, the analyst left room for interpretation and further debate.

For Hearts and Celtic, the message is clear: both clubs must rediscover consistency, rhythm, and attacking sharpness if they hope to alter the trajectory predicted by the data.

Whether the analyst’s bold projections prove accurate remains to be seen. But for now, they have succeeded