2005 Celtic Training – L

The 2004–05 season was a dramatic and emotionally charged year for Celtic FC, marked by highs in European competition and a gut-wrenching domestic finish. Under legendary manager Martin O’Neill, Celtic played an aggressive, attacking style, but despite a strong campaign, they lost the Scottish Premier League title on the final day to rivals Rangers — a loss made even more painful as O’Neill announced his departure shortly after.

🏆 Celtic 2004–05 Season Highlights

• Scottish Premier League: ❌ 2nd Place (92 points, lost on final day)

  • Lost the title after conceding two late goals vs Motherwell in the last match

• Scottish Cup: 🏆 Winners – Beat Dundee United 1–0 in the final

• Scottish League Cup: ❌ Quarterfinals

• UEFA Cup: ❌ Eliminated in Round of 32 by FC Barcelona
  ➡️ A season remembered for thrilling football but a heartbreaking league finale

🍀 Celtic Key Squad – 2004–05

Manager: Martin O’Neill (final season in charge)

Goalkeepers

• Rab Douglas

• David Marshall

• Magnus Hedman

Defenders

• Bobo Baldé

• Jackie McNamara (Captain)

• Joos Valgaeren

• Stephen McManus

• Didier Agathe

• Stanislav Varga

• Ross Wallace

• Ulrik Laursen

Midfielders

• Neil Lennon

• Stiliyan Petrov

• Alan Thompson

• Didier Agathe

• Shaun Maloney

• Juninho Paulista

• Aiden McGeady (emerging talent)

Forwards

• John Hartson

• Chris Sutton

• Craig Bellamy (on loan from Newcastle, crucial in spring)

• Henri Camara (loan)

The 2005 training kit captured the essence of a battle-hardened, competitive Celtic squad in transition. Martin O’Neill’s departure and the heartbreak of the final day loss signaled the end of an era, paving the way for Gordon Strachan to take over the following season.