Despite a late comeback against Ross County, Celtic looked disjointed before the international break, particularly after losing 7-1 to Borussia Dortmund in the UEFA Champions League. Another massive test awaits the Hoops as they set to host Aberdeen on Saturday afternoon.
The Dons are off to a flying start having won all seven league games so far this season. They are behind Celtic only on goal difference and a result at Parkhead would further boost their spirit after a disappointing 2023-24 campaign. While the Bhoys have primarily dominated this tie over the years, the appointment of Jimmy Thelin has turned things around in favour of the Pittodrie side.
Predicted 4-3-3 Celtic Lineup To Face Aberdeen
Defence
Kasper Schmeichel was far from his best in Denmark colours, and the veteran custodian needs to step up his game against the in-form Kevin Nisbet, Topi Keskinen and Jamie McGrath.
The absence of Cameron Carter-Vickers is a massive blow for the Glasgow giants. The USMNT centre-back is ruled out with a toe injury, and his compatriot Auston Trusty must keep his place alongside Liam Scales in the heart of the backline. Alistair Johnston is irreplaceable down the right irrespective of Anthony Ralston’s availability. Meanwhile, the calf strain of left fullback Greg Taylor has earned Alex Valle a starting status after a disappointing Cup debut against Falkirk. The young Barcelona loanee has impressed lately, but he should focus on his defensive game to deal with the Dons’ wing play and counter-attacks.
Midfield
Skipper Callum McGregor had two weeks’ rest upon his retirement from international football. The Scotsman would operate from his familiar deep-lying midfield role and orchestrate the show from the base exhibiting his vision, passing variation and technical traits. His presence would allow Arne Engels and Reo Hatate space and possession to operate box-to-box and make down-the-middle moves. Brendan Rodgers has rotated Hatate with Paulo Bernardo, however, the Portuguese might get involved from the bench in favour of the Japanese’s pace, flair and finesse in and around the box.
Attack
James Forrest has suffered an injury in the Scotland camp and is expected to miss the Aberdeen clash. But the Celts have Nicolas Kuhn who has been in blistering form down the right-hand flank. Daizen Maeda should operate from the left with Luis Palma not being in the manager’s first-team plans despite scoring a hat-trick against Sligo Rovers during last week’s friendly. Kyogo Furuhashi must replace Adam Idah and depict his lethal poaching traits while spearheading the attack.
