Opinion

Kasper Schmeichel should still be considered a Celtic success despite bittersweet ending

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Kasper Schmeichel’s Celtic career looks like it is going to come to an end in a cruel way after he announced that he will be set for an extended spell on the sidelines.

Schmeichel told CBS that he is expected to be out for 10-12 months to recover from a shoulder injury that may also bring an end to his playing career.

The 39-year-old’s Celtic contract expires this summer and the latest news will almost certainly bring an end to his time in Glasgow after a difficult season. However, despite his struggles between the sticks, Schmeichel should still be considered a successful signing.

Utterly devastating for Kasper, your thoughts, Celtic fans…

Stay strong, Kasper!

Kasper Schmeichel’s Celtic career has still been a success

Due to the struggles this season, some people have probably forgotten just how great Schmeichel was last season.

Brought to Parkhead on a free transfer by Brendan Rodgers in 2024, the Premier League title winner kept 24 clean sheets in 47 appearances as the Hoops won a domestic double.

He also equalled a 118-year club record after keeping five clean sheets in his first five games, which had only previously been achieved by Tom Sinclair in the 1906/07 season.

The Denmark international was also one game away from keeping 10 home clean sheets in a row, only to fall slightly short.

Yes, the 2025/26 campaign has involved a number of high-profile errors, but there have still been some key moments where he has rescued the Hoops or used his experience to guide others.

Kasper Schmeichel during the William Hill Premiership match between Dundee United and Celtic
Photo by WM Sport Media/Getty Images

Celtic must prepare for Kasper Schmeichel replacement

Viljami Sinisalo has proved to be a brilliant replacement and working with Schmeichel has certainly helped him to develop his craft.

Fans have wanted Sinisalo to replace Schmeichel for some time and now that he is here, albeit in different circumstances to what many expected.

Even if Sinisalo remains as the number one option, Celtic will need a replacement for Schmeichel to beef up the squad.

While they may find someone with more quality at this current stage of the Dane’s career, they will struggle to find a player with the experience that he has had.