Celtic, Rangers Face Early Season Struggles Amid Transfer Window Moves

Celtic faces significant challenges in the current transfer window, with manager Brendan Rodgers seeking two new wingers to replace injured Jota and departed Nicolas Kuhn, while former player Andy Halliday highlights additional needs for a striker, a left-sided centre-back, and a left-back. Meanwhile, Rangers started the 2025/26 Scottish Premiership season with a disappointing 1-1 draw against Motherwell, drawing criticism for poor tactics and mentality, as highlighted by pundits and former players like Derek Ferguson and Tony Cascarino. Rangers manager Russell Martin openly criticized his players' mentality after the draw, emphasizing the need for improvement despite the team's ongoing adjustment to his possession-based style. The gulf between Celtic and Rangers has been a focal point, with BBC pundit Gavin Wallace describing it as "unreal," noting that even former Rangers coach Billy Dodds doubts his former side can win the league this season. As Celtic prepares to begin their campaign at home against St Mirren, the pressure mounts on both Glasgow giants to address squad issues and bridge the competitive gap. The intense rivalry and high expectations continue to define Scottish football, with both clubs under scrutiny as the season unfolds.