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Celtic’s Untouchables: Why Is the Scottish Media Terrified of Dermot Desmond?

Callum McGregor is apparently a “sacred cow.” Martin O’Neill is portrayed as yesterday’s man. Cameron Carter-Vickers, his teammates and even the Celtic support are placed under relentless examination. Yet Dermot Desmond, Michael Nicholson and Brian Wilson continue to operate behind…

Published: Thursday, 24 September 2026 at 7:51 AM
Celtic’s Untouchables: Why Is the Scottish Media Terrified of Dermot Desmond?
Key Things to Know
  • Boardroom figures Dermot Desmond, Michael Nicholson, and Brian Wilson face far less scrutiny than Celtic players and managers.
  • Callum McGregor and Martin O'Neill have received intense criticism in mainstream media coverage.
  • Desmond is the largest individual shareholder and non-executive director rather than Celtic's owner.
The Story in 60 Seconds

An opinion piece highlights a disparity in media scrutiny at Celtic, arguing that players like Callum McGregor and manager Martin O'Neill face heavy public criticism while top executives escape similar accountability. Major shareholder Dermot Desmond, chief executive Michael Nicholson, and interim chairman Brian Wilson are noted as central figures in club governance who receive significantly less examination from journalists.

The article emphasizes that Desmond holds major influence despite historically being mislabeled as the club's owner. It notes that while players and management regularly face media questions following poor performances, Celtic's boardroom leadership primarily communicates through polished statements and limited public appearances, shielding them from sustained pressure regarding long-term planning and recruitment.

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