Kieran Maguire: Rangers and Celtic now ‘squeezing’ executives for maximum cash after critical update
Rangers and Celtic will be “squeezing” maximum cash from Australian promoters ahead of their controversial overseas friendly in November.
That is the view of finance guru Kieran Magure, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about plans for a first-ever overseas Old Firm clash.
Celtic confirmed on Wednesday (2 March) that they would take part in the four-team Sydney Super Cup, while Rangers followed suit shortly after.
As relayed by the Scottish Sun later that day, both sets of fans have staged protests against the fixture.
The clash is due to take place in November ahead of the winter World Cup in Qatar, which has added another layer of controversy to the plans.
Maguire understands fans’ concerns but insisted that the event will be a money-spinner for both Rangers and Celtic.
“Rangers and Celtic are big brands in their own rights,” he told Football Insider‘s Adam Williams.
“When you put them together, you’ve got a sell-out. That means they would be able to squeeze maximum money from promoters.
“This has been sanctioned at board level of both clubs because of the additional revenue it will generate.
“I can understand the reservations that some fans have, but the board do have a duty to maximise revenue.
“That in turn can boost the money for the recruitment and retention budget.”
Celtic beat Rangers 3-0 in the last Glasgow derby on 2 February.
Reigning Scottish Premiership championsRangers won the reverse fixture 1-0 in August last year.
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