Celtic’s harsh European reality summed up as Kristoffer Ajer pushes for Champions League at Brentford

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Kristoffer Ajer was linked with a return to Celtic last summer.

But the former Celtic title-winner stayed put at Brentford, who have been one of the success stories in European football this season.

Brentford, who lost their manager Thomas Frank to Tottenham, as well as several big-name stars in the summer, were tipped for relegation before a ball was kicked, but they are now pushing for Champions League football under Keith Andrews.

It further proves the incredible gap between English and Scottish football, because Celtic might not even play in Europe’s elite competition, even if they become champions of Scotland again.

• READ MORE: Former Celtic defender Kristoffer Ajer makes decision on future that could affect 2026 World Cup spot

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Kristoffer Ajer’s continued rise at Brentford after Celtic exit

Ajer was a popular player at Celtic after spending five trophy-laden years in Glasgow, including huge success under Brendan Rodgers.

When the ball-playing centre-back left Parkhead to join Brentford in 2021, the London club had just earned promotion to England’s top-flight for the first time since the 1946–47 season.

When you compare the finances of the Bees to the rest of the Premier League, it’s night and day. A bit like what Celtic have to compete with in Europe.

So, for Ajer to be pushing for Champions League football, whilst his former club could end up in the Europa Conference League, says a lot.

Ajer to meet Celtic in Europe?

Brentford are currently sitting seventh in the Premier League table, which is a spot in the Conference League, but they are only five points off fifth-placed Liverpool.

English football is on course to be granted five Champions League spots for next season, so everything is up in the open, just like the title race in Scotland.

The Hoops will be in Europe next term, it’s just a case of where? Unless Brentford mess up, they should also secure Europe, so there is every chance Ajer reunites with his former club.

It’s certainly one to watch out for because Celtic and Brentford could drop into any European competition next term.

But it further proves the harsh reality of where Celtic are right now. They might have the club size, but they are very poorly run off the field, and they have been in decline since winning the double last term.