Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou has stated all responsibility lies at his door as the Hoops European campaign came to an end on Wednesday evening.
The Bhoys played out their final group-stage game at the iconic Santiago Bernabeu against current Champions League holders Real Madrid.
And it ultimately ended in disappointment as they were defeated 5-1 in their sixth and final group match-up, failing to pick up a victory across those games.
Despite not picking up three points, there were positive aspects of our performances on the continent, going toe-to-toe with some top European sides.
However, it comes as a huge frustration to come away with nothing to show from our group and off the back of a hammering in our final game.
Speaking in the aftermath of last night’s defeat, Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou provided his assessment of the campaign as a whole.
Although the 57-year-old is positive for the future and believes his side will be better equipped for this experience if they return, he also put his hands up and took responsibility for the downfalls this season.
He said [Scottish Daily Mail]: “For us and the majority of our players, this is their first experience not just at Champions League level but in European football.
“I understand the fine lines and how you get punished for mistakes and how you need to take opportunities, and you can only develop that by being exposed to it and experiencing it. For us, it’s the first time we’ve been in the Champions League for five years.
“The responsibility lies with me because I have taken a bold approach to try and make an impact.
“We have paid the price for not having the quality and clinical finishing at one end and the opposition taking advantage at the other.
“The key for us is if we continue to play like this and continue to improve and we continually get to Champions League level, then I have no doubt that we’ll make an impact.”
Celtic support can see what Ange is building and would much rather see ourselves tested in Europe.
All the questions before the European campaign kicked off were surrounding whether we would see Ange Postecoglou continue to play his attacking system.
And the consistent answer to that question was yes.
No matter the opposition, the Hoops were always looking to test themselves against some of the world’s best clubs. And although it might have ended in a disappointing way, I would rather see us go out fighting, playing our football than putting in the same performances we have in some of the recent Champions League campaigns.
We might have exited the competition after six games, but at least we have given it a go, and ultimately, we were unfortunate not to take more.
Of course, I, like any fan, would much rather see us pick up victories. But, it is also clear to see that we are building something under Ange, and this year’s group stage experience is likely to be a big learning experience that will help us reach the end goal.
Here’s hoping we can see the Bhoys back in UCL action next year, and we will see how much our experience the first time around has benefited us.
In other news, “I’ve got no doubt”; Celtic boss shares his Madrid verdict as he makes improvement claim.
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