Former Barcelona midfielder Xavi is keen to see Celtic back in the Champions League as he feels the tournament is elevated by the presence of the Scottish champions.

While Celtic have been dominating Scottish football for the last few years, they have not been in the Champions League group stage since 2013 and have been underperforming in Europe generally.




Celtic are currently in the third qualifying round and managed a draw in the first leg of their tie against FC Astana in Kazakhstan earlier this week; they are favourites to beat them at home next week.

The Scottish champions are hoping to navigate the tricky qualifying phase and make it to the group stage for the first time in three years and Xavi is hoping that they achieve their goal this season.
 


The former Barcelona man has played against Celtic in Europe, and feels the Champions League is a much better tournament with the presence of the Scottish champions.  

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He told Celtic’s official website: “I have always been outspoken about my affection for Celtic and I really hope this is the year they can make it back to the Champions League.

“It is a brighter tournament with them there.

“The atmosphere in their stadium is incredible – their fans are the best in Europe.

"It will be good to have them back.”

Celtic will take on Barcelona in a pre-season friendly later this evening at Paradise.