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How much Celtic could bank from Champions League win or draw vs Slovan Bratislava

Celtic face Slovan Bratislava on matchday one
-Credit: (Image: SNS Group)


Celtic announced this week that they have more than £77million sitting in the bank.

But that figure could soar if the Hoops embark on a successful European campaign. The Scottish champions released their annual report on Monday laying bare their staggering financial power over the rest of Scottish football. It was revealed that Celts had splashed out more than £32m across the summer transfer window, a figure that rival SPFL clubs including Rangers could only dream of spending on new players.

However, Parkhead chiefs will expect a return on their investment after twice shattering the club's transfer record on £11m Arne Engels and £9.5m Adam Idah. Brendan Rodgers' men are heavy favourites to romp to yet another title this season, with a record-extending ninth Treble also in their sights.

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Yet it's in Europe where Celtic will really be judged as they seek to improve on previous campaigns that have ended in disappointment in recent years. Rodgers admitted during yesterday's press conference that it's "the most ready" he's felt taking Celts into Europe's premier competition. Tonight, they'll begin their quest for at least a play-off spot by hosting Slovakian champs Slovan Bratislava to Parkhead - the lowest ranked team in the competition.

It may well be matchday one but the opening fixture has already been earmarked as a "must-win" if the Hoops are to finish in the top 24 of the revamped league phase. The green-and-white faithful will rock up to Celtic Park with huge optimism that they can get their Euro campaign off to a flyer after a formidable start to the domestic season.

And as Celtic look to regain some pride in Europe, there's also a significant financial windfall at stake should they pick up three points.. This season, the combined Champions League prize pool sits at a staggering £2.077billion and of course, that spells good news for Celtic.

Without kicking a ball, the Hoops have already pocketed £15.7m just for being in amongst the big boys this season. And that figure is due to rocket once gate receipts and TV money come into play. There's also the matter of performance-related bonuses which Celts have eight opportunities to benefit from.

Each victory is worth £1.8million in additional prize money, while a draw sees clubs awarded £590,000. There's no reward for defeats, but Celts will fancy their chances of earning additional millions against the likes of Bratislava, Young Boys and Club Brugge over the coming weeks and months.