Embarrassing from Callum McGregor and disrespectful to his teammates and his manager.
Embarrassing from Callum McGregor and disrespectful to his teammates and his manager.”
Celtic captain Callum McGregor has always enjoyed a reputation as a calm, measured leader, someone who represents the club with dignity even when criticism swirls around the dressing room. Yet this week, that image was shaken after comments attributed to McGregor sparked outrage among supporters, coaches, and former players. What was meant to be an honest expression of frustration has instead been interpreted as embarrassing, disrespectful, and damaging to the unity of the team.
The situation began when McGregor offered a blunt assessment of Celtic’s recent performances, pointing fingers at teammates while also questioning tactical decisions. While frankness can sometimes be welcomed, the tone and timing of his remarks raised eyebrows. They came after back-to-back disappointing results, and rather than rallying the squad, his words seemed to put distance between himself and the rest of the dressing room. Many feel that as captain, he should have protected the group rather than publicly criticising them.
The backlash didn’t come only from fans. Former Celtic players and pundits expressed deep concern, saying McGregor’s leadership style must be rooted in unity, not division. A captain is expected to speak constructively, to privately challenge teammates when necessary, and to show unwavering support in public. Instead, it sounded as though McGregor was washing internal issues in full view of the public. The result has been widespread embarrassment, not only for him but for everyone within the club.
Perhaps most troubling for supporters is how his comments reflect on manager Danny Röhl. Celtic’s boss has already been under pressure, working to implement a system that will lift performances and restore dominance. For the captain to undermine tactical decisions publicly felt, to many, like a betrayal. Managers are judged on results, but progress often takes time. When senior players question the leadership publicly, it can fracture belief, create excuses, and weaken the standards that every top team requires.
Inside the dressing room, the reaction has allegedly been one of disappointment. Several teammates, it’s understood, felt blindsided by the remarks. Unity is essential at any club, and Celtic are no exception. When the captain seems to separate himself from the collective, it creates the perception that he is distancing himself from responsibility. Teammates need to know that their leader stands shoulder-to-shoulder with them, especially in difficult spells.
This entire episode has reignited the debate about accountability at the highest level. Yes, players must be honest. Yes, supporters deserve truth. But leadership requires timing, diplomacy, and a willingness to solve problems behind closed doors. McGregor has been around long enough to understand those principles, which is why this moment feels particularly disappointing for so many associated with the club.
With that said, there is still room for resolution. McGregor has earned respect throughout the years through his hard work, consistency, and loyalty. He remains a figure with significant influence. What matters now is how he responds. A clarification, or even a dressing-room apology, could go a long way toward rebuilding trust. The season is long, and Celtic still have everything to play for. The squad must move past this quickly if they are to keep their ambitions alive.
Ultimately, this episode stands as a reminder that words matter. When spoken by the captain of a historic club, they carry even greater weight. What happened may be embarrassing and disrespectful, but it can also serve as a valuable lesson. Strong leadership is not only about honesty it is about uniting the group, protecting the manager, and setting standards that bring the club forward, not tear it apart.football is very interesting game.
