”It’s not me, fans don’t want him on Celtic shirt anymore” Martin O’Neil reply to journalist about Celtic defender future after 1:4 defeat Leaves everyone Speechless

Tensions boiled over on a bruising European night as Celtic slumped to a humiliating 1 to 4 defeat, prompting a stunning post match response from manager Martin O’Neil that left the press room in silence.

The Hoops were dismantled by a ruthless attacking display that saw goals from Bilal El Khannouss in the 15 and 28 minutes, Jamie Leweling in the 57 minute and Tiago Tomás in the 90+3 minute. Despite a spirited reply from Benjamin Nygren in the 21 minute, Celtic were second best for large spells of the contest.

However, the biggest shock of the evening came not on the pitch but in the aftermath as O’Neil addressed mounting speculation surrounding defender Kieran Tierney.

Celtic were caught cold inside the opening quarter hour. El Khannouss opened the scoring in the 15 minute with a composed finish after slicing through a disorganized defensive line. The early goal rattled the Scottish champions, who struggled to find rhythm amid relentless pressing and sharp movement between the lines.

Just six minutes later, Nygren offered hope. Latching onto a precise through ball, the Swedish attacker drilled a low shot beyond the goalkeeper to level the score at 1 to 1. For a brief moment, the traveling support believed momentum had shifted and that their side could wrestle control back.

But that optimism evaporated before halftime. El Khannouss struck again in the 28 minute, capitalizing on hesitation at the back. Celtic’s defensive frailties were exposed, with gaps appearing between full backs and central defenders, a worrying theme that persisted throughout the evening.

Tierney, deployed on the left side of defense and substituted after 78 minutes, endured a particularly difficult night. Frequently isolated and forced deep into his own half, he struggled to contain the opposition’s pace and movement. Several dangerous attacks originated down his flank, increasing the scrutiny on a player who has long been regarded as a symbol of commitment and leadership.

The second half brought little relief. Leweling extended the lead in the 57 minute, finishing off a swift counterattack that cut through Celtic’s midfield with alarming ease. At 3 to 1 down, the body language of the players told a grim story. Heads dropped, passes went astray, and confidence visibly drained from a side that had started the campaign with optimism.

Celtic pushed forward in desperation, committing more bodies into attack in search of a lifeline. That gamble left them vulnerable at the back. Deep into stoppage time, Tomás added a fourth goal, calmly slotting home to compound the misery and seal a comprehensive 4 to 1 scoreline.

The final whistle was met with a mixture of boos and stunned silence from sections of the support. It was not merely the defeat that hurt but the manner of it. Defensive disorganization, lack of midfield protection, and an inability to respond to pressure painted a troubling picture.

When O’Neil entered the press conference, the atmosphere was tense. Questions quickly turned toward Tierney’s future at the club, with one journalist suggesting that fans no longer wanted him wearing the famous green and white shirt following recent inconsistent performances.

O’Neil’s response was sharp and unflinching.

“It’s not me,” he said firmly. “If fans don’t want him, that’s their opinion. But I pick players based on what they give this team. And I still believe in him.”

The remark sent a ripple through the room. Some interpreted it as a subtle challenge to supporters, while others saw it as a clear and passionate defense of his player during a difficult moment.

The manager continued by emphasizing collective responsibility. “We all had a bad night. You cannot single out one individual after a result like that. Football does not work that way. We defend together and we attack together.”

Yet the reality is that scrutiny is intensifying. Tierney, once considered untouchable and central to Celtic’s identity, now finds himself at the center of growing debate. Injuries over recent seasons have disrupted his rhythm, and questions about consistency have lingered despite his experience and commitment.

Inside the dressing room, the mood was described as somber and reflective. Senior players reportedly spoke among themselves, acknowledging the defensive lapses and calling for greater accountability ahead of crucial upcoming fixtures. There is recognition that performances must improve quickly to prevent the season from drifting off course.

Nygren, who provided the only bright moment for Celtic with his well taken goal, attempted to strike a balanced tone after the match. He stressed unity and resilience, insisting that setbacks can be overcome with hard work and belief.

The defeat leaves O’Neil facing mounting pressure. Supporters will demand a response not only in results but in structure and intensity. Tactical adjustments may be necessary, particularly in defensive transitions where the team appeared vulnerable throughout the night.

For Tierney, the coming weeks could prove decisive. Backed publicly by his manager yet questioned by sections of the fan base, he stands at a crossroads. Whether this performance becomes a turning point for redemption or a signal of change remains uncertain.

What is clear is that this heavy loss has sparked uncomfortable conversations. Celtic must regroup swiftly, restore defensive stability, and rediscover the resilience that has defined their proud history. The manager stands firm in his support of his players, but patience among supporters may be wearing thin after a night that will not be forgotten anytime soon.