Celtic interim chairman Brian Wilson has revealed a sweeping new plan to revamp the club’s supporter engagement structure ahead of the new season.
The announcement comes after a turbulent year that saw relations between the Celtic hierarchy and large sections of the fanbase deteriorate significantly.
The Green Brigade ultras group were locked out of Celtic Park for five months during the difficult period, adding to the growing friction between supporters and the board.
The Celtic Fans Collective had urged supporters not to renew their season tickets heading into the dramatic conclusion of the Premiership campaign.
A series of protests against the Celtic board were also held throughout the season, reflecting widespread dissatisfaction among sections of the support.
Despite the turbulent backdrop, manager Martin O’Neill led the club to a Premiership and Scottish Cup double, delivering silverware during a deeply unsettled period.
Tension has continued into the summer, with large sections of Celtic Park remaining empty during pre-season friendlies against Middlesbrough and AC Milan.
A slow transfer window has done little to ease frustrations, with Camilo Duran and record signing Kasper Hogh the only two new arrivals at the club so far.
Wilson’s new plan introduces a dedicated Head of Supporter Engagement role and a new fan engagement group called Celtic Connect to improve two-way communication.
The club statement confirmed the hierarchy will be “very mindful of continuing its close liaison with existing supporters’ groups” as part of the new framework.
Wilson said: “Jock Stein famously said ‘football without fans is nothing’. Celtic supporters are renowned throughout the world for their passion and commitment to the Club.”
He added: “The power to make a difference when united in support of the team was confirmed in dramatic fashion in the closing stages of last season.”
Wilson acknowledged the club’s commitment to structural change, stating: “We made a commitment to improving our approach to supporter engagement and to create a structure through which better two-way communication can be achieved between the Club and the broad base of the support.”
He stressed that the process would be built on shared values, saying: “This will be built on mutual respect and a shared commitment to Celtic’s continued success.”
Wilson confirmed the initiative would not rest on a single measure, adding: “We need a range of channels through which the views of the support can be reflected and responded to.”
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