What Does the Champions League Mean for Celtic and Rangers?

As Celtic and Rangers strive for Champions League qualification, the stakes have never been higher for Scottish football. With financial incentives and coefficient points on the line, both clubs aim to secure a spot in one of the most prestigious competitions in world football. The outcome of their matches could significantly impact their future campaigns, both financially and in terms of reputation.

Last updated: 26 August 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Champions League qualification offers substantial financial rewards, estimated at €18m (£15.5m) per club.
• Coefficient points are critical for the future of Scottish football, impacting the number of teams that can compete in Europe.
• A failure to qualify could result in a significant drop in Scottish football's international standing.
• Scottish clubs face a challenging path, with potential repercussions for lower-tier teams in future seasons.
• The financial and competitive benefits of the Champions League outweigh those of the Europa League.

The Financial Landscape of European Football

To understand the implications of Champions League qualification, it is essential to examine the financial landscape of European football. The Champions League is the most lucrative of the three European club competitions, providing clubs with a vital source of income. Each team that qualifies stands to gain approximately €18 million (£15.5 million), a substantial amount that can significantly enhance a club's financial stability.

In contrast, should Celtic or Rangers drop into the Europa League, their financial rewards would diminish sharply. The prize money for progressing in the Europa League is significantly lower, with a total payout of just over €4 million (£4.5 million) for clubs that fail to qualify for the Champions League. Additionally, the value of match wins in the Europa League is considerably less, with each win yielding around €450,000 (£388,000) compared to €2 million (£1.73 million) for Champions League victories.

The Importance of Coefficient Points

Beyond financial concerns, coefficient points are a key factor in determining the future of Scottish clubs in European competitions. The coefficient system ranks countries based on the performance of their clubs in European tournaments. Scotland currently sits precariously close to dropping out of the top 15, which would severely affect the number of teams that can participate in UEFA competitions.

As Gavin Noon, an expert on Scotland's coefficient, explains, Scotland is trailing Austria by 2.8 coefficient points. This gap translates to needing seven additional wins in the league phase to equal Austria’s standing. However, qualifying for the Champions League offers substantial bonus points that could help Scotland leapfrog Austria, as each team reaching the league phase adds valuable points to the national coefficient.

What Happens If Scotland Falls Out of the Top 15?

Failing to maintain a position in the top 15 would have dire consequences for Scottish football. Instead of five teams participating in European competitions, Scotland would be limited to just four. This change would mean that clubs like Dundee United, which recently achieved European qualification, could find themselves missing out entirely.

The ramifications extend to the structure of qualification as well. Instead of entering the Champions League play-off round, the Scottish Premiership winners would face three qualifying rounds, significantly diminishing their chances of reaching the group stages. This creates a cycle of decreased revenue and diminished competitiveness on the European stage.

The Role of Celtic and Rangers in Scottish Football

Celtic and Rangers are not just two of the largest clubs in Scotland; they are vital to the national footballing landscape. Their success in Europe directly influences not only their finances but also the perception of Scottish football globally.

Both clubs have a storied history in the Champions League, with Celtic being a regular participant and Rangers aiming to re-establish themselves on this prestigious stage. Their presence in the competition is crucial for Scotland's footballing reputation. As Steven Thompson, a former Rangers striker, notes, having these clubs compete at the highest level benefits the entire Scottish league by enhancing its profile and attracting more investment.

The Debate: Champions League vs. Europa League

There is an ongoing debate among fans and analysts about whether clubs like Celtic and Rangers would fare better in the Europa League due to potentially higher chances of progression. While it is true that success in the Europa League could lead to a more favourable narrative, the financial implications of Champions League qualification are too significant to overlook.

Moreover, the prestige associated with the Champions League cannot be understated. Fans want to see their clubs competing against the best in Europe, and regular participation in the Champions League is essential for maintaining a strong club identity.

Long-Term Implications for Scottish Football

Ultimately, the pursuit of Champions League qualification is about more than just immediate financial gains. It is about the long-term health of Scottish football. Regular participation in the Champions League allows for increased revenue streams, which can be reinvested into clubs and grassroots football, fostering talent development and competitive success.

For clubs aspiring to compete at the highest level, the Champions League represents the pinnacle of achievement. Securing a place in this elite tournament could have ripple effects throughout Scottish football, impacting everything from youth development to club infrastructure.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Celtic and Rangers?

The upcoming matches for Celtic and Rangers will be pivotal. For Celtic, a 0-0 aggregate draw against Kairat Almaty means that the return leg will be crucial. Success here could set the tone for their season, while Rangers face a daunting task, trailing 3-1 against Club Brugge. The fate of both clubs hangs in the balance, and their performances in these matches could define the future of Scottish football.

As fans eagerly await the outcomes, one thing is clear: Champions League qualification holds the keys to financial stability, national pride, and the ongoing development of Scottish football.

FAQs

How much money do clubs earn from the Champions League?

Clubs that qualify for the Champions League can earn approximately €18 million (£15.5 million), excluding additional revenue from ticket sales and sponsorships.

What are coefficient points and why are they important?

Coefficient points are awarded based on a club's performance in European competitions and are crucial for determining how many teams from a country can participate in future tournaments.

What happens if Scotland falls out of the top 15 in UEFA rankings?

If Scotland falls out of the top 15, the number of teams eligible for European competitions would drop from five to four, severely limiting opportunities for clubs.

Why is Champions League participation essential for Scottish clubs?

Champions League participation is vital for financial reasons, national reputation, and the overall development of football in Scotland.

Can clubs earn more money in the Europa League?

While clubs may win more matches in the Europa League, the financial benefits of Champions League qualification far outweigh those of the Europa League due to higher prize money and additional revenue streams.