Former Real Madrid star makes massive Celtic claim

Real Madrid will kickstart their Champions League campaign with a game away at Parkhead against the champions of Scotland, Celtic. Just like Los Blancos, they have made a perfect start to their campaign as well, by winning all six of their league games and a League Cup tie. On top of that, they sent a statement of intent this weekend with a 4-0 win over their Glasgow rivals, Rangers, a team that reached the Europa League final last year.

Thus, while Real Madrid are without doubt expected to win on the occasion, it would be a massive mistake if they write off Celtic.

Under the management of Ange Postecoglou, they play an intense and attacking style of football that could give Real Madrid troubles for sure. Celtic managed to beat Real Betis at Parkhead last season while pretty much playing their second string side.

And Steve McManaman does not believe that it would be a shock if Celtic took something out of the game against Real Madrid at Parkhead. As reported by the Daily Record, he told the Scottish Daily Mail:

"“I wouldn’t think it would be much of a shock. I think Celtic could easily get something out of the game [against Real Madrid].“Real Madrid sometimes start this type of competition slowly. They always qualify from the group, but they can start slowly. Tuesday is the perfect opportunity. First game of the Champions League, the noise of Celtic Park.“Real always concede goals. We saw it last year against better opposition but they like to run forward, which can leave them open. I think it will be a close game and I would be quietly confident about Celtic qualifying alongside Real Madrid.”"

Former Real Madrid star makes massive Celtic claim

That is a big statement from McManaman for sure, when you consider that Real Madrid are the defending champions of Europe and beat teams like PSG, Chelsea, Manchester City and Liverpool to win that title.

But at the same time, the former Real Madrid star does raise some good points for sure. Los Blancos do start the Champions League quite slow at times and they are conceding goals at the moment at an alarming rate. They are yet to keep a clean sheet this season.

Add to that the atmosphere at Parkhead, which is arguably the best in Europe, and it could prove to be a recipe for disaster if they are not careful.