**Celtic FC: A Legendary Football Club with a Rich History and Iconic Players**
## **Introduction**
Celtic Football Club, founded in Glasgow, Scotland, is one of the most legendary and successful football teams in the world. Founded in 1887 by Brother Walfrid to help poverty in the Irish immigrant population, the club has developed into a global force, noted for its passionate supporters, historic rivalries, and trophy-laden past.
In this blog article, we’ll explore: - The history and significance of Celtic FC - The current squad size and structure
- The **5 most popular Celtic FC players** of all time - The club’s effect on Scottish and European football
By the conclusion, you’ll understand why Celtic FC remains one of football’s most revered institutions.
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## **Celtic FC: A Brief History**
Celtic FC was created on **November 6, 1887**, and played their first official match in May 1888. The team immediately climbed to prominence, earning its first Scottish league title in **1893**. Since then, Celtic has dominated Scottish football, winning: - **53 Scottish League titles** (a record) - **41 Scottish Cups** (another record) - **21 Scottish League Cups** - ** 1 European Cup (1967)** – being the first British club to win the famous trophy
The **1966-67 season** remains famous, as Celtic, under manager **Jock Stein**, won every competition they entered, including the European Cup against Inter Milan. This squad, known as the **"Lisbon Lions,"** consisted solely of players born within 30 miles of Glasgow—an extraordinary feat.
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## **How Many Players Are in Celtic FC’s Current Squad? **
As of the **2024-25 season**, Celtic FC’s first-team squad consists of **approximately 25-30 players**, including:
- **Goalkeepers (3-4) ** - **Defenders (8-9) ** - **Midfielders (8-10) ** - **Forwards (5-7)**
The actual amount changes owing to transfers, loans, and youth promotions. Celtic also boasts a solid **B team and academy system**, assuring a pipeline of future potential.
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## **The 5 Most Popular Celtic FC Players of All Time**
Celtic has been home to innumerable icons, but these **five players** stand out as the most famous in the club’s history.
### **1. Henrik Larsson (1997-2004) **
**Position:** Striker **Goals:** **242 in 315 appearances** ** Trophies:** 4 Scottish Premier Leagues, 2 Scottish Cups, 2 Scottish League Cups
Henrik Larsson, called **"The King of Kings,"** is perhaps Celtic’s greatest-ever player. The Swedish striker was a **prolific scorer**, famed for his accurate finishing, aerial skills, and trademark dreadlocks. His **35-goal season in 2000-01** helped Celtic stop Rangers’ domination, and he later won the **European Golden Boot**.
After leaving Celtic, Larsson played for **Barcelona** and **Manchester United**, although his legacy remains greatest at Parkhead.
### **2. Jimmy Johnstone (1961-1975) **
**Position:** Winger **Appearances:** **515** ** Trophies:** 9 Scottish Leagues, 4 Scottish Cups, 5 League Cups, 1 European Cup
A member of the **Lisbon Lions**, Jimmy Johnstone, or **"Jinky,"** was a scintillating winger with remarkable dribbling skills. Despite his diminutive stature, he scared defenders with his quickness and ingenuity.
Fans and peers considered him as **Celtic’s greatest-ever player**, and he was elected **Celtic’s Player of the Century** in 2002.
### **3. Kenny Dalglish (1969-1977)**
**Position:** Forward **Goals:** **167 in 320 games** ** Trophies:** 4 Scottish Leagues, 4 Scottish Cups
Before becoming a Liverpool legend, **Kenny Dalglish** was a Celtic hero. Known for his intellect, vision, and finishing, he was a significant player in the 1970s.
He later became one of Britain’s finest managers, winning many titles with **Liverpool and Blackburn Rovers**.
### **4. Paul McStay (1981-1997) **
**Position:** Midfielder **Appearances:** **678** ** Trophies:** 3 Scottish Leagues, 2 Scottish Cups
Nicknamed **"The Maestro,"** McStay was a **one-club man**, spending his whole career with Celtic. A elegant player with exceptional passing and leadership, he captained the club during a tough phase yet remained a fan favorite.
### **5. Scott Brown (2007-2021) **
** Position:** Midfielder **Appearances:** **620** ** Trophies:** ** 10 Scottish Leagues, 6 Scottish Cups, 6 League Cups**
A modern Celtic legend, **Scott Brown** was the heart of the squad for **14 years**. A fiery leader, he led the club through its **dominant run in the 2010s**, including the **"Invincibles" season (2016-17)** where Celtic went undefeated domestically.
His enthusiasm and tenacity made him a symbol of Celtic’s battling spirit.
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## **Celtic FC’s Impact on Football**
Celtic is more than simply a club—it’s a **cultural institution**. The iconic **"You’ll Never Walk Alone"** anthem, shared with Liverpool FC, defines its ethos. The **Old Firm derby** versus Rangers is one of football’s toughest rivalries.
The club also has a large **global fanbase**, with supporters’ clubs abroad. Its **youth academy** continues to generate outstanding players, assuring future success.
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## **Conclusion**
Celtic FC is a club rooted in **history, passion, and success**. From the **Lisbon Lions** to recent legends like **Scott Brown**, its heritage is unparalleled in Scottish football.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to football, Celtic’s tale is one of **triumph, loyalty, and unforgettable moments**.
**Who’s your favorite Celtic legend? Let us know in the comments!**