"Means the world"; Celtic FC Women boss can't wait to taste Parkhead atmosphere

By Euan Davidson

March 24, 2022

Saturday is absolutely massive for Celtic FC Women boss Fran Alonso and his team.

The charismatic Spanish manager is a man who embraces the spotlight. Whether he’s rocking his famous white jacket, or he’s giving an interview, the guy just oozes charisma. If you were ranking all the staff at Celtic to get a Cerveza with, Alonso would be right up there.

So, it follows that the Spaniard is absolutely beside himself with excitement for Saturday. Celtic Park will play host to the Celtic FC Women team, with season ticket holders getting free access.

During an international break for the men’s sides, Celtic have pounced to create something special for supporters. Last year, Celtic FC Women beat Rangers 1-0 at Paradise, with a goal from Mariah Lee. However, there was nobody in the stands to enjoy the moment.

This year, however, it’s different. Celtic take on Hibs at Celtic Park on Saturday, and Fran Alonso has clearly been counting down the days for some time now.

Alonso said [Celtic FC]: “Obviously the excitement is very, very big for all of us.

“We are training so well this week and everyone is full of enthusiasm. Many family members of the players are coming which will make it extra-special, playing at Paradise in front of the fans.

“It means the world to us, it really does. We played here once, but we missed them, and this time it’s going to be with them – that’s incredible.

“It will be an incredible atmosphere regardless of how many fans we are going to have and we can’t wait for that.”

Brilliant Fran Alonso deserves his Celtic Park moment, and so do Celtic FC Women

It’s impossible not to love Fran Alonso, though I’m not sure why you’d try.

Anyone who’s spoken to him or watched an interview would find it hard not to enjoy listening to him. He speaks with such passion about the game, and is so devoted to providing attacking, entertaining football with his side.

We talk about how good Ange Postecoglou’s team is, especially compared to last season. Since Fran Alonso came into the Celtic FC Women set-up, though, slick and fluid football has been the name of the game.

He deserves credit, especially having won the SWPL Cup this season, and having taken his side to the Champions League.

It’d be great to see a packed Celtic Park for this. The Celtic FC Women squad is packed with talent, and the width of the Paradise pitch suits them perfectly.

There are still tickets available, but one thing’s for sure; wherever Fran Alonso is, there’ll be entertainment.

Don’t miss this one.

Read more: Reo Hatate’s brilliant comments on destroying rivals at Celtic Park