Brendan Rodgers backs Celtic to be 'really competitive' in Champions League

Brendan Rodgers asserts that he has never been more equipped to guide Celtic into a Champions League campaign, as the Glasgow club aims to overcome years of disappointment in Europe's premier club competition this season.

Celtic made history as the first British team to secure the European Cup in 1967, triumphing over Inter Milan with a score of 2-1 in the final held in Portugal. However, their recent performances in European tournaments have starkly contrasted with the glory days of the 'Lisbon Lions.'

Currently in his second tenure as Celtic's manager, Rodgers has overseen only two victories in 18 Champions' League group matches, with wins against Belgian club Anderlecht and Dutch team Feyenoord.

Despite this, the 51-year-old is optimistic as he prepares to lead Celtic into their Champions League opener against Slovan Bratislava at home on Wednesday, buoyed by the Scottish champions' perfect start to the domestic league season, which includes five wins from five matches, 14 goals scored, and no goals conceded.

"There is no doubt that this feels like the most prepared I have been as Celtic manager entering a Champions League campaign," Rodgers stated on Tuesday.

He further remarked, "It presents a significant challenge, and for teams like ours, we must perform at our utmost to succeed, particularly given the financial evolution of the game.

However, I firmly believe that if we can elevate our squad to a highly competitive standard, our achievements at home can create a truly remarkable environment, allowing us to remain competitive at this level."

There have been numerous instances where, through no fault of the players, who have consistently given their utmost during my tenure here, we simply did not reach the required standard. This is the reality we face.

"However, I now view our club as one that is making significant progress and looking ahead. The support we received this summer has been exceptional, particularly with the arrival of Belgium midfielder Arne Engels for what is reported to be a club record fee."

Celtic has historically been the preeminent force in Scottish football, yet Rodgers emphasized: "Our aspirations extend beyond merely being the benchmark in domestic competitions. We aim to enhance our performance and succeed in Europe.

"It is an extraordinary level of competition to be part of. I embrace the challenge wholeheartedly, and the players are eager to participate in it. This is the reason we dedicate ourselves throughout the year: to secure our league title and to experience nights like these, which will be truly remarkable for them."