Celtic will find out more than just their first European opponent when the draw is made on the 18th June.
Just like last year, the two opening rounds of Champions League qualifying will be drawn on the same day. This means that Celtic will know who they’ll face at the start of July and also who they could come up against in the following round.
Last year, we were drawn to face Armenian champions FC Alashkert. We also found out we would come up against Rosenborg or Valur after that.
Later rounds
Another interesting observation is that the draw for the third round of qualifying is made before a ball has been kicked in the second-round. Last year, Celtic knew they would face AEK Athens if they saw off Rosenborg. The same applies for the final playoff round.
It adds an interesting dynamic to an already complex procedure. Celtic’s players will just have to put all of the complicated stuff to one side and focus on winning four ties. If they can do that then they’ll be back in the Champions League group stage after missing out last year.
Receive a digest of our best Celtic content each week direct to your mailbox
