Graeme Souness has never been one to shy away from a controversial opinion, and his latest remarks about Celtic have sparked a furious reaction from the Parkhead faithful.
The incident occurred during a post-match discussion following Celtic’s chastening Europa League defeat to Celta Vigo. Philippe Clement was a guest on the panel alongside Souness, the former Rangers manager, and the pair were standing in the studio analysing Celtic’s performance when Souness made a remark that left Clement in stitches.
Souness, known for his blunt assessments, suggested that Celtic’s defeat to Celta Vigo was “the most predictable result of the week” and that the Hoops had been “found out” at the highest level.
“Let’s be honest about it,” Souness said. “Celtic didn’t get to Europe on merit. They got there because Scottish football hands them a place every year. They didn’t earn it through the Champions League, they didn’t earn it through the Europa League. They got a spot because of the coefficient, because of the league they play in. And that’s why they’re suffering. They’re not good enough for this level, and they never have been.”
Clement, standing beside Souness, couldn’t help but laugh. He covered his mouth with his hand and shook his head as Souness continued.
“You can laugh, Philippe,” Souness added. “But you know I’m right. You’ve been on the other side of it. You know what it’s like to face them domestically and then watch them struggle in Europe. It’s the same story every year. They talk about making an impact on the continent, and then they get humbled. They didn’t get here on merit, and it shows.”
Clement, still smiling, responded: “I’m not going to comment on that. But I’ll say this it’s never easy going to Spain. Celta Vigo are a good side. Celtic will bounce back.”
Souness wasn’t finished.
“Bounce back? They’ll bounce back domestically, of course they will. They’ll win the league, they’ll beat most teams in Scotland, and everyone will say they’re brilliant again. But in Europe? In Europe, they’re always found out. Always. And the fans don’t want to hear it. They’d rather pretend it’s not happening. But it is happening. It’s been happening for years.”
Celtic fans were quick to react on social media, with many furious at Souness’s comments and Clement’s reaction. One fan wrote: “Graeme Souness is a clown. He’s been bitter about Celtic for years. Why is he even on the panel?” Another added: “Clement laughing at that is a disgrace. He’s got no class. He’s just as bitter as Souness.”
A third fan said: “Souness can say what he likes. We’ll see who’s laughing at the end of the season. Celtic will bounce back. We always do.”
The defeat to Celta Vigo has left Celtic’s Europa League campaign hanging by a thread, with the return leg at Celtic Park now a must-win. But with Souness’s comments adding fuel to the fire, the Celtic supporters will be more determined than ever to prove their critics wrong.
Clement, meanwhile, refused to be drawn further on the matter, insisting his focus was on his own team’s upcoming fixtures. But his laughter during Souness’s remarks will not be forgotten by the Celtic faithful.
For now, Souness has done what he does best sparked a debate, riled up a fanbase, and reminded everyone why he remains one of the most polarising figures in Scottish football.
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