Celtic: Martin O'Neill remains hopeful over transfers despite Champions League exit

Celtic manager Martin O'Neill is hopeful that missing out on the Champions League will not impact the club's ability to secure prospective signings. The Scottish Premiership side will now compete in the Europa League following a 5-1 extra-time defeat to LASK on Tuesday, which saw the Austrian side win the play-off 5-4 on aggregate.

This marks another disappointment for the club, which also exited the qualifiers last season against Kairat Almaty. Despite the setback, O'Neill is pushing for reinforcements before the transfer window closes next week.

I'm hoping that's not the case. We're still trying to get some players in, we would need a few in obviously to supplement the squad. I'm hoping that we can get some people in before the transfer deadline. Martin O'Neill

Celtic have faced criticism from supporters regarding their transfer business, particularly after losing influential players Daizen Maeda to Ipswich Town and Arne Engels to West Ham United earlier this window. While four new arrivals have joined the club, fans have expressed concerns about the squad's readiness for the season.

O'Neill acknowledged that the Champions League is a major draw for younger talent and admitted that the Europa League, while still a great competition, lacks the same prestige and financial rewards. Reflecting on the defeat, the manager took accountability for the team's second-half collapse, noting that they should have secured the tie by half-time when they held a significant aggregate lead.