Callum McGregor was not included in the squad for Celtic’s Scottish Cup clash against Rangers.
McGregor’s absence came as a surprise to many, particularly because the Celtic captain is usually a guaranteed starter in the team.
The previous time he missed a match was also against Rangers in March 2025, when the Hoops were beaten 3-2 by their Glasgow derby opponents. Statistics show that since becoming captain, Celtic perform significantly better when McGregor features in the side.
Celtic’s record with and without Callum McGregor as captain
Scott Brown passed the captain’s armband to McGregor in 2021, and the midfielder has settled into the role comfortably ever since.
During that period, the 32-year-old has been almost ever-present. However, whenever he is unavailable, the Hoops clearly find things more difficult.
Since taking over the armband, McGregor has missed only 22 matches, with Celtic losing five of those — meaning they suffer a defeat roughly every four games on average.
When the captain is in the team, they have lost 24 matches, but that has come across more than 200 games, which averages out to a defeat every eight matches.
Even McGregor himself would admit he may not be the most technically gifted or physically dominant player in the squad, but what he consistently provides is structure and calmness within the team.
Who could replace Callum McGregor as Celtic captain?
Martin O’Neill’s decision to leave McGregor out of the lineup offers a glimpse of what life might look like when the homegrown Hoops supporter eventually brings his career — or his Celtic journey — to an end.
Liam Scales wore the armband for the Scottish Cup tie, but many supporters would expect Kieran Tierney to be the obvious long-term successor.
Beyond those two, it is somewhat concerning that there are few strong leadership figures who appear ready to assume such responsibility.
Luke McCowan previously captained Dundee, but he doesn’t play regularly enough to justify wearing the armband, while others in the squad have yet to demonstrate the leadership qualities needed for the role.
Recently, Celtic have faced criticism for relying too heavily on McGregor. Now presents the perfect opportunity for the team to show they can succeed without him.