John Collins Is the Latest to Call Out Celtic’s Lack of Spending

Every Celtic supporter has heard the argument that patience in the transfer market eventually pays off. The problem is that many fans feel they have been hearing that same message for years.

Now another respected voice has echoed those concerns. Former Celtic midfielder John Collins has questioned whether the club’s approach is aggressive enough, adding weight to a debate supporters have been having for several transfer windows.

John Collins echoes what Celtic fans have said

Collins said supporters expected “five new players” to arrive as Celtic looked to build on last season. Whether that exact number was realistic or not, his point reflects the mood among many fans who believed this summer required decisive action rather than another drawn-out transfer window.

He also suggested last season’s recruitment “wasn’t good enough.” That’s a strong assessment from someone who understands the standards required to compete at Celtic.

For many supporters, this isn’t simply about spending more money. It’s about recognising when the time is right to strengthen from a position of financial power. Celtic have built one of the healthiest balance sheets in British football. Naturally, fans expect that strength to be reflected on the pitch.

Celtic cannot afford another slow start

The Champions League qualifiers are now fast approaching, making every day increasingly valuable. New signings need time to adapt, settle into Martin O’Neill’s system and build relationships with teammates.

That is why Collins’ comments resonate with so many supporters. They are not hearing a former player demanding reckless spending. They are hearing someone questioning whether Celtic are moving quickly enough in a market that becomes more expensive with every passing week.

He also acknowledged that identifying talent before everyone else remains important. Smart recruitment has always been part of Celtic’s success. However, smart recruitment also requires decisiveness.

The transfer market has changed dramatically over the last decade. Fees continue to rise, competition is fiercer and hesitation can often mean missing out altogether.

The board still has time to respond

There is still time for Celtic to strengthen before the biggest matches of the season. If the right players arrive, much of the criticism will disappear overnight.

However, Collins has become the latest respected football figure to ask questions that supporters have been asking for years.

The board now has an opportunity to answer those questions not with words, but with action. Few things would lift the mood around Celtic Park more than seeing ambition matched by decisive recruitment before the window closes.