Steve McManaman is quietly confident that both Celtic and Rangers can progress from their Champions League groups in the coming months despite the challenges that face them in Real Madrid, Liverpool and Napoli, to name but a few.
Rangers' first Champions League group stage since their plight down to Scottish League Two sees them face European giants Liverpool, Napoli and Ajax in what has been billed as a potential 'group of death', whilst Celtic face holders Real Madrid, alongside the tough tests of RB Leipzig and Shakhtar Donetsk.
The Glaswegian duo have not fared well in recent years, with Celtic being the last side to reach the Champions League group stages nine years ago, in 2013; whilst Rangers last reached the last 16 in 2006 only to be dumped out by eventual semi-finalists Villarreal. Yet this year, there feels to be something different in the air. Rangers' first go at the Champions League proper since their plummet down the leagues has released tension, anger and years of hurt, whilst they also have shown pedigree on the continent given their run to the Europa League final last season.
For Celtic, it is less so about a story of anguish and revenge; they have had European opportunities galore over the last decade yet have failed to properly explore them for a number of reasons. However, under Ange Postecoglou, the Hoops have a newfound identity of fearlessness, attacking prowess and again will be roared on by a crowd of over 60,000 strong which many have called the 'best atmosphere in the world'.
And McManaman has highlighted the bravery, determination and the bold nature of both teams wanting to succeed as reasons for why they shouldn't go into the tournament fearing that they will come rock bottom in their groups.
"I wouldn't think it would be much of a shock. I think Celtic could easily get something out of the game [against Real Madrid]," McManaman said to the Scottish Daily Mail.
"Real Madrid sometimes start this type of competition slowly. They always qualify from the group, but they can start slowly. Tuesday is the perfect opportunity. First game of the Champions League, the noise of Celtic Park.
"Real always concede goals. We saw it last year against better opposition but they like to run forward, which can leave them open. I think it will be a close game and I would be quietly confident about Celtic qualifying alongside Real Madrid.
"I would rather watch Celtic play like that than sit back, defend and try to counter-attack. That's just my preference and it's why I'm more than happy to watch Ange's team."
McManaman then aired his thoughts on Rangers ' chances against another former club in Liverpool; stating that whilst they are group favourites, Napoli and Ajax are easily attainable wins.
"My initial thought is why shouldn't they go into the Champions League and have a go?" McManaman said. "Rangers start with Ajax, who have sold (Ryan) Gravenberch and (Noussair) Mazraoui to Bayern Munich, while Antony and Lisandro Martinez have gone to Manchester United.
"Of course Ajax are going to be competitive and they'll bring players through from the academy, but PSV Eindhoven are the dominant team in the Netherlands at the moment. They've scored 22 goals in four games but Rangers have just knocked them out to qualify, so why can't they go and be competitive?
"Napoli have sold a few of their best players too; Dries Mertens has gone, so has Kalidou Koulibaly. Why not have a go at them too? Gio's got them to the Europa League final, so even on form this is not straightforward. It's not right to say it's done and dusted just because you are up against famous names."
