Every new football season starts with hope, but this one feels different.
Across Scotland, there’s a buzz that’s not just coming from Glasgow’s big two. From Edinburgh to Dundee, there’s a sense that more clubs might actually shake things up this year — and wouldn’t that be something?
The dream is simple: a league where results aren’t predictable, where no game is a guaranteed three points for Celtic or Rangers, and where the excitement stays alive right through the dark winter nights.
Fans want atmospheres that make you feel like you’re floating into the stadium, not just trudging in out of habit.
The Bloom Effect and Hearts’ Big Ambitions
Some of this optimism might be down to one man — Hearts’ new investor, Tony Bloom.
At a recent Q&A, he had supporters believing the club could win the league within ten years. Under normal circumstances, you’d laugh.
After all, Celtic have dominated with 13 titles in 14 years and five trebles in the last nine seasons.
But Bloom’s track record is hard to ignore.
He’s taken Brighton into Europe and helped Union Saint-Gilloise win the Belgian title on a smaller budget than rivals.
With Derek McInnes as manager and a smart recruitment setup, Hearts are already looking sharper — as shown in their recent win over Aberdeen.
Hibs Making Moves in Europe
While Hearts are dreaming big, Hibs are already delivering on the pitch.
Their 2-0 victory over Partizan Belgrade in Serbia was huge, with Martin Boyle scoring his 100th and 101st goals for the club.
Manager David Gray has signed a new contract and looks ready to take them to the next level.
With promising striker Kieron Bowie, record signing Thibault Klidje, and defensive steel from Grant Hanley, plus early boardroom tensions now smoothed over, Hibs are building a strong platform for success.
Dundee United Bringing Back the Glory Days Vibes
Dundee United’s 2-2 draw away at Rapid Vienna might not sound historic, but for their fans, it felt like the old days. The atmosphere at the away end was electric, and there’s a real sense of momentum under manager Jim Goodwin.
Yes, some have criticised the focus on foreign signings, but players like 22-year-old Australian Zac Sapsford are already showing they could be special — and profitable — talents.
Could We See Multiple Scottish Clubs in Europe’s Group Stages?
If four or five Scottish clubs made it to the group stages of European competition, the boost to the country’s football reputation — and the national coefficient — would be massive.
And with St Mirren boasting about having the league’s second-best midfield (behind Celtic), and Motherwell adopting an ambitious passing style under new coach Jens Berthel Askou, the competition is starting to look tasty.
The Old Firm Might Not Have It All Their Own Way
Yes, most people would still bet on Celtic winning the league and Rangers finishing second, but both clubs have vulnerabilities.
Celtic haven’t been active in the transfer market despite Brendan Rodgers’ ambitions, and Rangers are still rebuilding.
That opens the door for others. Aberdeen, for example, could make a statement when they face Celtic today, building on their Scottish Cup win last season under Jimmy Thelin.
Why a Wide-Open Title Race Would Be a Game-Changer
Imagine a Premiership where no result feels safe for the Old Firm, where packed houses and hot atmospheres are the norm, and where clubs in the top six keep landing knockout blows on each other. That’s the dream.
This season, it feels possible. Celtic’s recruitment looks sluggish, Rangers are still finding their feet, and ambitious clubs like Hearts, Hibs, Dundee United, and Aberdeen smell opportunity.
Dundee United Should Lock Down Jim Goodwin
When Jim Goodwin got the United job permanently in 2023, plenty of people doubted him.
His Aberdeen exit was messy, and even United’s promotion last year was closer than it should have been.
But finishing fourth in the Premiership last season and earning a European draw away to Rapid Vienna has silenced critics.
With only 10 months left on his deal, English clubs are sniffing around.
United’s owner Mark Ogren should act fast — losing Goodwin now could derail all the momentum they’ve built.
Pressure on Celtic’s Recruitment Team
Celtic’s Champions League play-off squad deadline is just days away, and Brendan Rodgers admits new signings aren’t close.
Wingers, strikers, other positions — nothing is imminent.
That puts the spotlight on Paul Tisdale, the club’s low-profile head of football operations.
Most fans wouldn’t recognise him, but if Celtic go into a £40m play-off without reinforcements, his work — or lack of it — will face intense scrutiny.