Celta's Giráldez says survival hinges on points before Glasgow

Claudio Giráldez, the Celta coach, told reporters on Wednesday at the club’s Balaídos stadium that his side must collect points immediately if they are to keep alive their Europa League hopes ahead of the crucial Wednesday’s clash in Glasgow against Celtic.

He warned that “we are in a short competition and we need to add points as soon as possible, hopefully three tomorrow”, stressing that the team had come close to earning a point or three in each of the two previous games.

In the official pre‑match press conference at Celtic Park, Giráldez added that “each error will penalise you” in the continental tournament and urged his players to deliver “the most complete performance possible” against the Scottish side.

The Galician manager said he wants his squad to play “free”, noting that the “sense of belonging” among academy graduates sometimes “plays a bad trick” on them during games.

European pressure versus league focus

According to EFE, Giráldez declared, “Our main competition that underpins everything is the Liga. Playing European football for a second consecutive year is a dream, but there is a distinct difference between this competition and the League, so we must enjoy these matches more.”

He also confirmed that veteran striker Iago Aspas is available for minutes, though not expected to complete the full ninety minutes despite his eagerness to play.

“I am eager to experience a match in a mythical European stadium like Celtic Park,” Giráldez said, hoping the team can turn ambition into a positive result.