Alan Shearer didn’t hesitate naming the biggest Scottish team between Celtic and Rangers
In the fierce rivalry between Celtic and Rangers, debates over which club holds the title of Scotland’s biggest team are as old as the Old Firm itself. Following Celtic’s recent triumph in the 2024–25 Scottish Premiership, Newcastle United legend and Premier League icon Alan Shearer didn’t hesitate to weigh in, unequivocally naming Celtic as the dominant force in Scottish football. His bold declaration, rooted in Celtic’s sustained success and trophy-laden cabinet, has reignited discussions among fans and pundits alike.
Celtic’s latest league title, their 55th Scottish League Championship, marked another chapter in their storied history. The Hoops clinched the 2024–25 Premiership with an impressive campaign, finishing ahead of rivals Rangers and maintaining their grip on domestic dominance. This victory, coupled with their record 42 Scottish Cups and 22 League Cups, brings their major trophy count to 120, edging out Rangers’ 118. Shearer, speaking on The Rest is Football podcast, was unequivocal: “Celtic are the biggest team in Scotland right now. Their consistency, their trophy haul, and the way they’ve handled the pressure of this rivalry—it’s hard to argue otherwise.”
Shearer’s connection to Scottish football runs deep. The former England striker was famously courted by Celtic manager Martin O’Neill in the early 2000s, though he opted to stay with his boyhood club, Newcastle United. He also played in a testimonial match against Celtic in 2006, scoring a penalty in a 3–2 win, and has frequently praised the electric atmosphere of Old Firm derbies. His admiration for Celtic’s fanbase and their “ferocious” support at Parkhead further underscores his perspective. “I’ve been to both Celtic Park and Ibrox, and the passion is unmatched, but Celtic’s recent dominance tips the scale,” he noted.
Celtic’s edge in the trophy cabinet is a key factor in Shearer’s assessment. Their 2024 Scottish League Cup final victory over Rangers, described as one of the most dramatic in recent years, saw them surpass their rivals by one major trophy. Historically, Celtic’s eight domestic trebles, including a world-record quadruple treble from 2016–20, and their 1967 European Cup win under Jock Stein set them apart. While Rangers boast a proud history, including four consecutive titles from 1899–1902 and a strong run in the 1990s, Celtic’s recent consistency has given them the upper hand.
Shearer’s verdict also reflects Celtic’s ability to thrive under pressure. Despite Rangers’ stirring 3–0 win in the January 2025 Old Firm clash, which Shearer attended at Ibrox, Celtic’s overall dominance in the 2023–24 and 2024–25 seasons has been undeniable. “Rangers put up a fight, but Celtic’s ability to keep winning titles and cups shows their class,” he said.
For fans, Shearer’s comments are both a validation and a spark for debate. Celtic supporters revel in the endorsement from a footballing icon, while Rangers fans point to their own storied past and global fanbase. Yet, with Celtic’s latest trophy in the cabinet, Shearer’s stance is clear: the Hoops are Scotland’s biggest team—for now.
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