Celtic set for financial boost as glamour friendly is confirmed

Celtic are unlikely to earn a major financial boost from their upcoming glamour friendly against AC Milan, despite the high-profile nature of the fixture.

The Scottish champions are set to welcome the Serie A giants to Celtic Park on July 25 as part of preparations for the 2026/27 campaign under Martin O’Neill, who recently signed a one-year contract extension. While the match promises excitement for supporters, expectations of a sizeable payday may need to be tempered.

According to former Manchester City financial adviser Stefan Borson, the one-off encounter is not expected to generate substantial profit for the club, with much of the income likely offset by operational costs and payments to the Italian side.

Borson explained that although ticket sales will create some revenue, friendly matches rarely deliver a meaningful financial return. With prices unlikely to rise significantly above normal pre-season levels, and expenses attached to hosting such an event, the overall impact on Celtic’s finances is expected to be minimal.

He also suggested AC Milan would likely receive a fee for participating, further reducing any potential windfall for the Hoops.

Instead, Borson believes Celtic’s focus should remain firmly on the bigger picture — their domestic title defence and a return to the Champions League, where significantly greater financial rewards are available.

The friendly will still carry significance on the pitch, however. O’Neill previously faced the Rossoneri during his first spell in charge back in 2004 in two memorable Champions League meetings, and supporters will now get an early glimpse of his squad ahead of the new season.

With pressure growing on Celtic’s hierarchy to strengthen the team this summer, the clash with Milan could also provide fans with a first look at any new signings before competitive action begins.

Although names such as Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Marcelo Saracchi have been linked with returns to Celtic Park, supporters are likely to expect more ambitious additions if the club are to build momentum after a dramatic title-winning campaign.

Ultimately, while the AC Milan fixture adds glamour to Celtic’s pre-season schedule, it appears unlikely to significantly alter the club’s financial outlook.