Celtic star Benjamin Nygren has admitted he understands the anger from the club’s fans this season, as Martin O’Neill’s side haven’t lived up to the standards expected.
It’s been a year of turmoil for Celtic, with Brendan Rodgers’ resignation in late October spiralling into months of instability, frustration and fan unrest.
That fan unrest hit a peak at the weekend. Fans aimed abuse at CEO Michael Nicholson, CFO Chris McKay and Interim Chairman Brian Wilson following a 2-0 loss to Dundee United. The latter required police protection while leaving the stadium.
“Not Another Penny” campaign highlights fan frustration
That followed various other demonstrations of anger from Celtic fans this season.
There is also an ongoing campaign organised by the Celtic Fans Collective, who have unified fans under the “Not Another Penny” banner.
They are actively encouraging a boycott of all club-run merchandise, food and hospitality. Their aim is executive resignations, transfer strategy reform and other major changes at the club.
Nygren sympathises with fan anger
Benjamin Nygren is acutely aware of the growing anger among the Celtic fanbase. And he admits he can sympathise with the supporters.
“The fans I have met have been very good and positive. The ones I have met on the streets of Glasgow,” he told Fotboll Skanalen.
“But then I also understand the anger from the fans, when it is such a big club. They are used to winning so many titles every year. When you don’t meet the demands that exist, I understand the anger.”
Rodgers exit and boardroom fallout
Rodgers’ departure was marked by a public falling out with majority shareholder Dermot Desmond. He accused Rodgers of creating a toxic atmosphere and being divisive, despite back-to-back league titles in 2024 and 2025.
Former manager Martin O’Neill was brought in to restore the peace. He succeeded, steadying the team with seven wins in eight games of an interim spell.
The boat was left rocking again, though, by his replacement Wilfried Nancy. His tenure lasted just 33 days after six defeats in eight games, including a 3-1 loss to St Mirren in the league cup final.
O’Neill returned against in January as Celtic find themselves in third place, five points behind leaders Hearts and two behind Rangers. A 2-0 loss to Dundee United over the weekend severely hampered their chances of retaining their title.
Nygren adjusting to Celtic demands
It’s been an eye-opening experience for Benjain Nygren. He only joined Celtic in the summer from Nordsjaelland. On a personal level, it’s been a success. But that doesn’t override the turmoil around the club.
“A lot has happened. We’ve had a few coaching changes and there are a lot of demands in a big club like Celtic,” he added.
“We have not lived up to those demands. We went to the play-offs in the Champions League, and we are not leading the league. It has been a bit mixed. It’s been a lot to experience.”
A club at a crossroads
Celtic now find themselves at a crossroads. The current crisis is no longer just about results on the pitch, but a clash between expectation and reality for the Scottish giants.
Benjamin Nygren’s honest reflects a dressing room that is acutely aware of the standards required, but the also pressure that comes with it.
With fan protests intensifying, trust eroded at boardroom level and the title slipping away, Celtic face a defining period that will ultimately decide their future.
