For over 20 years, Dermot Desmond has been the dominant figure behind the scenes at Celtic.
At 75 years old, many supporters believe too much power still rests with one man. Whether that perception is fair or not, football has changed dramatically—and Celtic must change with it.
Modern clubs don’t rely on instinct alone. They rely on recruitment analytics, specialist departments, data-driven decision-making and younger executives bringing fresh ideas.
Take Hearts’ use of Jamestown Analytics. They’ve embraced modern recruitment methods while Celtic supporters continue to ask why their own club isn’t leading the way in football analytics.
The same questions extend beyond recruitment.
Why does Celtic’s social media still feel outdated for a club with millions of supporters worldwide?
Why is there so little fresh thinking at boardroom level?
Where are the younger directors with expertise in technology, analytics, digital media and modern football operations?
Scottish football has changed. European football has changed.
The way Celtic is run must change too.
This isn’t about reckless spending. It’s about modern leadership, faster decision-making and building a structure that is prepared for the next decade rather than relying on the last two.
Celtic remain Scotland’s biggest club.
Now they need a leadership model that reflects that status.
Is it time for Dermot Desmond to loosen his grip and allow a new generation of expertise to help drive Celtic forward?
Does dermot actually own the club ? Or is he just the largest shareholder. If it’s the latter then why does everything have to go through him. It’s like being back in time with the whites and the Kelly’s in charge.things need to change and change quickly but I can’t see that happening any time soon.if the finger doesn’t get out then the team from the other side of the city will walk it. They have moved quickly on getting players in while the club were still haggling over wages for the back room staff.