Celtic's prospects of retaining the Scottish Premiership title may have received a significant, if indirect, boost following Rangers' exit from European competition. On Thursday, April 9, 2026, Rangers were eliminated from the UEFA Europa League quarter-finals by Italian side Atalanta, losing 2-0 on aggregate. This result ends their continental campaign for the season.
The elimination means Rangers will now face a less congested domestic schedule than if they had progressed, removing potential fixture pile-up ahead of the Scottish Cup semi-final and league run-in. However, analysts note that the psychological and physical toll of the defeat could impact Rangers' form. The Glasgow rivals are locked in a tight title race, with Celtic currently holding a narrow lead at the top of the table.
The focus for both clubs now shifts entirely to domestic duties. Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has consistently emphasized the need for his squad to control their own destiny. With the final Old Firm derby of the league season scheduled for early May, the championship is likely to be decided in the coming weeks. The fixture list, now finalized for both sides, will be a critical factor in the title chase.
