Time for Celtic to Prepare for Life After Schmeichel
With Kasper Schmeichel entering his last year as Celtic’s No. 1, the club must use this season to prepare for the future by giving his understudies game time.
With Kasper Schmeichel entering the final year of his Celtic contract and openly considering a potential return to Denmark and retirement, the club must begin planning for the future. While the veteran Dane remains a reliable presence in league and European competitions, the upcoming season presents an ideal opportunity to integrate backup Viljami Sinisalo and incoming Aberdeen keeper Ross Doohan - particularly in domestic cup fixtures - to assess their readiness for bigger roles.
The Need for Transition
At 38, Schmeichel has been a steady figure since joining Celtic, but his error in the Scottish Cup final and failure to save any penalties in the penalty shootout against Aberdeen have raised questions about his long-term viability. His admission that he would ‘never turn down the possibility of playing in Denmark’ suggests that this could indeed be his final season at Parkhead.
While his experience remains invaluable, Celtic must use this season to gradually phase in his successor rather than face an abrupt transition next summer.
Sinisalo’s Potential as the Future No. 1
The 23-year-old Finnish keeper has already shown promise in limited appearances, conceding just four goals in eight matches last season while keeping four clean sheets. His performances during Schmeichel’s injury spell were impressive, demonstrating composure and shot-stopping ability.
With his contract running until 2029, Celtic clearly see him as a long-term project. However, potential cannot be realised without meaningful game time. Domestic cup matches should be handed to Sinisalo this season, allowing him to build confidence and prove he can handle the pressure of being Celtic’s future No. 1.
Ross Doohan’s arrival from Aberdeen will add further competition. While he may initially serve as third-choice, his presence and experience should push both Schmeichel and Sinisalo.
Why Cup Games Are the Perfect Testing Ground
Low-risk environment: Domestic cups allow Sinisalo to gain experience without the immediate pressure of league or European football.
Schmeichel remains fresh: Preserving the Dane for crucial league and Champions League matches ensures stability while developing his successor.
Assessing readiness: If Sinisalo excels, he could gradually take over as first-choice as the season comes to an end.
Celtic cannot afford to delay the inevitable. Schmeichel’s time is winding down, and Sinisalo must be given the platform to prove he can step up. By prioritising him in cup competitions this season, the club can make an informed decision on whether he is truly the heir to the gloves - or if they need to dip into the transfer market next summer and farm him out on loan.
The transition starts now.