Celtic news: Pundit reacts to ‘massive’ uncovered documents – ‘Those figures are huge’
Celtic receiving “massive” payouts for qualifying for the Champions League is the “be-all and end-all” of their financial status.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, former Rangers and Aston Villa defender Alan Hutton claimed the Hoops reaching the group stage is “essential”.
Uncovered Uefa documents revealed that Brendan Rodgers’ side earned £26millon for their participation in 2022-23 despite only earning two points and finishing rock-bottom of Group F.
The prize money contributed to their record £120million revenue last season, with such financial strength allowing them and fellow European regulars Rangers to remain unchallenged in the Scottish top flight.
Celtic have landed a “massive” £26m payout
Hutton admitted that Celtic’s main aim each season is to win the league title, but claimed European football is crucial for player sales and reinvestment into the squad.
“The European money is absolutely massive,” he told Football Insider.
“It’s the be-all and end-all for Celtic.
“Of course, winning the league is what Celtic want to do each season, but to get into the Champions League group stages is essential.
“Whether they get through them or not, which they obviously want to do, the money incentive is there.
“Look at Rangers in the Europa League when they went on a long run to the final – there’s a lot of money coming into the football club.
“That’s what gives them the cash to help with player trading and to reinvest in the squad.
“These figures are huge for Scottish football.
“They’re obviously well off it in terms of other leagues, but that’s what they need to move forward.”
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