Fans and media figures react as Celtic make questionable trip to Dubai

By Euan Davidson

January 2, 2021

Celtic made it clear that the squad and coaching staff would be flying to Dubai regardless of today’s result.

Needless to say, fans and the general public aren’t too impressed. Given that we’re in the depths of a deadly pandemic, it seems like a bit of a slap in the face.

Celtic supporters worldwide have been hugely affected by the Covid-19 disaster. It feels particularly galling knowing that Season Ticket money has been spent on this squad jolly to the UAE.

Yes, in an ideal world, Celtic should go to warmer climes when the opportunity presents itself. You could quite reasonably argue that Dubai, with its awful reputation for human rights (Human Rights Watch) isn’t the place. Nor is it the time.

According to the Scottish Sun, “the UAE is on the current official list of exempt countries meaning there’s no requirement to adhere to the otherwise necessary 10 days self isolation on return”.

Besides, it’s a work trip. No harm done, right…?

In another awful PR move for the Club, the Celtic hierarchy have unapologetically confirmed the squad’s foreign travails, even in the middle of a congested fixture list.

The whole thing, to be frank, is a total mess. Journalists and supporters of both Celtic and other Scottish clubs were quick to point this out.

Celtic training in Dubai last year / (Photo by Craig Williamson / SNS Group via Getty Images)

Celtic condemned by media and fans

Perhaps the most reliable source in football, where Celtic are concerned, Sky Sports man Anthony Joseph was clear in his disappointment:

The Guardian’s Ewan Murray tried to get his head around Celtic’s decision:

Similarly, A View From The Terrace cast member Duncan McKay expressed his understandable dismay:

Fans across Scottish football, meanwhile, were equally unequivocal.