Shelbourne will host Celtic’s first pre‑season XI on July 7, 2026 at Tolka Park, kicking off at 6 pm. The Scottish champions arrive with a blend of seasoned pros and academy prospects, aiming to sharpen their edge before the domestic season starts.

Who is in Celtic’s line‑up?

Martin O’Neill announced a mixed squad featuring veterans like Doohan, Donovan, and Carter‑Vickers, alongside younger talents such as McArdle and Balikwisha. Notably, Alex Oxlade‑Chamberlain will miss the fixture, having signed a new contract that sees him head to Portugal later this week. Alistair Johnston, Daizen Maeda, and Auston Trusty are also unavailable after their World Cup commitments.

Why the match matters for Shelbourne

Beyond the friendly vibe, the game offers Shelbourne a rare chance to test themselves against a top‑flight opponent. With Shelbourne sitting 3rd in the Premier Division, 59 pts from 36 games, recent form DWWWW, the club hopes to gauge its defensive solidity against Celtic’s attacking options. The match also serves as a showcase for Shelbourne’s own prospects, who could attract interest from larger clubs.

What does the line‑up reveal about Celtic’s preparation?

Celtic’s selection hints at a focus on fitness and integration of youth. The inclusion of McGregor, Bernardo, and Forrest suggests O’Neill is experimenting with different midfield dynamics, while the bench, stocked with names like Sinisalo and Scales, provides depth for in‑game adjustments. The absence of key internationals underscores a cautious approach to player workload after a demanding World Cup.

What’s next for Shelbourne after the friendly?

After the Celtic encounter, Shelbourne will return to league action, still 7 points behind leaders Shamrock Rovers in the title race. Their next league fixture will test whether the experience gained against Celtic translates into points, especially as they aim to improve on a 0W‑1D‑4L recent run. Fans will be watching closely to see if the defensive lessons learned can tighten up a side that has conceded 37 goals this season.

The friendly promises an entertaining evening for Dublin supporters, with Celtic’s star power meeting Shelbourne’s home advantage. Whether the match ends in a high‑scoring thriller or a tactical stalemate, the experience will be a valuable barometer for both clubs as they head into the crucial phases of their respective campaigns.