Will Celtic Pull the Trigger on Ultimate Trophy Day Rangers Insult?
The 2024–25 Scottish Premiership season has reached its climax, and Celtic find themselves on the verge of securing their 12th league title in 13 seasons. With the title already clinched, attention now turns to the final matchday at Celtic Park, where the Hoops have a unique opportunity to deliver a pointed message to their Old Firm rivals, Rangers.
The Background: A Season of Domination
Celtic’s dominance this season has been undeniable. Under the guidance of manager Brendan Rodgers, the team has displayed exceptional form, culminating in their fourth consecutive league title. This achievement not only solidifies their position at the top of Scottish football but also brings them level with Rangers on 55 league titles, the most in Scottish football history.
The Hoops’ journey to this point has been marked by consistent performances, tactical acumen, and a squad brimming with talent. Their success has been a testament to the club’s ethos and the effectiveness of Rodgers’ managerial approach.
The Ibrox Incident: A Bold Response
Earlier this season, during a match at Ibrox, Rangers fans played Tina Turner’s “Simply the Best” over the stadium’s sound system. In a display of defiance and wit, Celtic supporters in the away end responded by singing the song in unison, turning what was intended as a tribute to Rangers into a moment of shared irony.
This spontaneous act by Celtic fans was not just a playful retort but a statement of confidence and rivalry. It highlighted the shifting dynamics in Scottish football, where Celtic’s recent successes have overshadowed Rangers’ achievements.
The Final Day Dilemma: To Play or Not to Play?
As Celtic prepare to lift the league trophy at Celtic Park, the question arises: should they play “Simply the Best” during the celebrations? For many supporters, this would be a fitting continuation of the banter initiated at Ibrox, a cheeky acknowledgment of their current superiority.
However, some fans advocate for restraint. One supporter expressed concerns about the song’s associations, stating, “Under no circumstances should this happen. It was funny as a one-off at Ibrox, but please, catch yourself on. The Huns turned this song into a racist, sectarian, supremacist, WATP anthem. The UDA also adopted this song as their own. The song should be allowed to wither and die on the vine.”
This perspective underscores the complexities of football rivalries, where actions on the pitch often intertwine with deeper cultural and political sentiments.
Ally McCoist’s Stance: A Rangers Perspective
Rangers legend Ally McCoist has weighed in on the matter, asserting that “Simply the Best” will always belong to Rangers, despite recent attempts by Celtic fans to adopt it. He emphasized that the song has been a symbolic anthem of Rangers since their dominant nine-in-a-row league wins in the 1990s. McCoist remains adamant that “The Best” symbolizes Rangers’ legacy, and he does not believe Celtic can claim it, regardless of their recent successes.
The Bigger Picture: Scottish Football’s Competitive Landscape
While the rivalry between Celtic and Rangers garners significant attention, it’s essential to consider the broader context of Scottish football. The dominance of these two clubs has led to concerns about the competitiveness of the league. Celtic’s upcoming receipt of their 12th title in 13 seasons and a potential sixth domestic treble since 2016 underscores this imbalance. The last team outside the Old Firm to win the league was Aberdeen in 1985. Financial disparities are stark, with clubs like Celtic having a £124m turnover compared to St Mirren’s £6m. Proposed structural changes and external investments offer rare hope for restoring competition and preventing more decades of monotony in the Scottish Premiership.
Conclusion: A Day of Celebration and Reflection
As Celtic prepare to celebrate their league title at Celtic Park, the decision to play or not play “Simply the Best” will be a nuanced one. While some view it as a fitting tribute to their current dominance, others caution against reinforcing negative associations. Regardless of the soundtrack, the day will undoubtedly be one of celebration, pride, and reflection on Celtic’s remarkable achievements this season.
In the end, football is more than just a game; it’s a reflection of culture, identity, and history. The events of this season, both on and off the pitch, will be remembered as a testament to the enduring passion and rivalry that defines Scottish football.