Supporter Concerns
Martin Gemmell highlighted his duty to supporters within their group to further request answers to the seven questions they had put forward and queried why the questions had not previously been addressed.
Michael Nicholson confirmed that the Club was aware of the questions, together with similar correspondence received by email directly to Club colleagues. Michael Nicholson confirmed that the Club did not believe it was appropriate to respond in writing at the time the seven questions were first published. Chris McKay noted that it is difficult to explain all the variables in written form.
Martin Gemmell asked why Club wouldn’t utilise video and speak to supporters directly instead. Following meetings with supporter organisations on Friday 5 September 2025, it was understood that there was desire for the Club to address supporters’ concerns regarding the transfer window. Club engagement with supporter groups was also discussed more generally, with Michael Nicholson highlighting a number of meetings with supporters’ groups, the Fans Forum and the AGM. Engagement with media on footballing matters was also discussed, with Michael Nicholson confirming that the football manager comments on footballing matters.
Michael Nicholson then addressed the statement released on behalf of the Celtic plc Board dated Saturday 7 September 2025, which was intended to address some of the specific issues discussed at the preceding meetings. Michael Nicholson and Chris McKay acknowledged that the statement was not well received, noting that this further highlights the importance of having these discussions with supporters to provide further context.
The meeting also acknowledged more general concerns regarding the tone and delivery of the statement and how this was viewed by supporters as insulting. Michael Nicholson confirmed that this was not the intention of the statement. Michael Nicholson reminded Celtic Fans Collective that they do not speak for all supporters and confirmed that some supporters defended the Club statement.
When asked why there was no signature on the statement, Michael Nicholson declared this was normal practice and the statement was released on behalf of the board.
Michael Nicholson confirmed that the Club was happy to discuss the questions raised to seek to make progress, but some issues (including the removal of directors) are matters for the Board and shareholders. The importance of maintaining confidentiality was discussed, together with the impact of this obligation on the Club’s ability to share confidential information relating to the Club’s business affairs, including individuals and transfers. Supporters Groups confirmed that they sought to understand the Club’s strategy, rather than details regarding specific transfers or reported potential transfers.
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