In a stunning and unfiltered take that has sent shockwaves through the Celtic support on social media and fan forums, respected Scottish football journalist Stephen McGowan has pointed the finger where many supporters believe the rot really lies. And trust us — this is not what most fans want to hear. �

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📢 The Harsh Reality McGowan Says Fans Need to Hear

Despite Celtic’s continued domestic success and a Scottish Cup win, McGowan says the real issue isn’t on the pitch — it’s in the boardroom. Fans may protest about the odd transfer or managerial decision, but McGowan insists the thing that truly blocks genuine progress is one man who holds the keys to the club’s power: billionaire shareholder Dermot Desmond. �

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According to McGowan’s latest commentary:

“So long as Dermot Desmond is calling all the shots, nothing will truly change.” �

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That’s not just hot take talk — it’s a growing sentiment echoed by sections of the support who feel Celtic are being run like a cautious investment fund rather than an ambitious football club. �

Celts Are Here

🧨 Why Fans Are Losing It

Let’s break down the explosive points that have supporters up in arms:

💰 Cash in the Bank, No Ambition

Even with huge financial reserves — reportedly holding tens of millions in the bank — the club’s willingness to spend that money boldly has been questioned. McGowan and fans alike are baffled that Celtic haven’t backed their managers with top-level signings, particularly in the striker department and crucial attacking areas. �

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✋ The Power Structure Fans Hate

McGowan argues the problem isn’t just who is making decisions, but how they’re being made. New chairs, advisory boards, and fan engagement initiatives might calm the noise — but as long as Desmond retains ultimate control, little of substance will shift. �

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Supporters are asking painful questions like:

Why hasn’t Celtic paid a permanent transfer fee in months? �

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Why do we hold huge funds yet barely improve the squad? �

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Why does the board still operate like accountants rather than ambition-driven football executives? �

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🔥 Increasing Fan Protests & Boycott Threats

Tensions are so high that fan groups are organizing boycotts and protests, directly targeting Celtic’s leadership structure. Even the interim chairman has been forced to publicly address supporter anger in recent days. �

The Scottish Sun

Martin O’Neill, brought in to steady the ship on the pitch, has even refused to play peace-keeper between board and fans — insisting his job is purely about football performance. �

The Scottish Sun

📉 McGowan: Winning Isn’t Enough

Here’s the kicker: McGowan’s critique isn’t about trophies. It’s about the direction and identity of the club. Fans have watched Celtic win silverware domestically, yet still feel a lack of genuine strategic progress, especially in Europe — and they blame the board’s financial caution and decision paralysis, anchored at the top by Desmond himself. �

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📌 Bottom Line

Stephen McGowan isn’t just giving an opinion — he’s articulating what a huge chunk of the Celtic fanbase feel in their bones: one man’s hold on power is stifling ambition at one of Scotland’s most iconic clubs.

And trust us — Celtic fans aren’t going quietly into the night on this one. 🔥