Former Celtic defender Carl Starfelt has sent an emotional and heartfelt message to the Celtic supporters following the club’s latest Scottish Premiership title triumph — and his words have already sparked huge reactions among fans across social media.
The Swedish centre-back, who left Celtic before the club’s latest title-winning celebrations, admitted that he believes many supporters may no longer feel the same way about him after his departure. Yet despite the emotional distance created by his exit, Starfelt made it crystal clear that his love and admiration for Celtic remains as strong as ever.
“I know most fans don’t like me anymore,” Starfelt reportedly admitted in an emotional reflection after watching Celtic secure yet another league crown. “But seeing the club win again still means a lot to me.”
Those words immediately struck an emotional chord with sections of the Celtic support. While some fans were surprised by the honesty of his comments, others quickly flooded social media with messages thanking the former defender for his contribution during one of the club’s most dominant domestic periods in recent history.
Starfelt played a major role during his time at Celtic, helping stabilize the defense during an important rebuilding phase under former manager Ange Postecoglou. Arriving with pressure already mounting on the squad, the Swedish international initially faced criticism from some supporters as he adapted to the pace and intensity of Scottish football. However, through determination, consistency, and resilience, he gradually became an important figure in Celtic’s backline.
His partnership at the heart of defense helped Celtic reclaim domestic dominance and produce some memorable performances both in Scotland and in Europe. While not always the loudest or most glamorous player on the pitch, Starfelt earned respect within the dressing room for his professionalism and commitment to the club’s ambitions.
Despite that, his departure divided opinion among supporters. Some fans understood his desire for a new challenge and supported his move abroad, while others were disappointed to see an experienced defender leave during an important transitional period for the squad. That emotional divide is likely what inspired his latest honest confession about believing some supporters may no longer appreciate him the same way.
Still, many Celtic fans responded warmly after hearing his message following the title celebrations. Several supporters praised him for showing humility and genuine affection toward the club even after moving on from Glasgow.
One fan reacted online by saying: “You gave everything for the badge. Real fans will always respect you.” Another added: “He doesn’t need to think we hate him. He helped bring success back to Celtic.”
The timing of Starfelt’s message also made the story even more emotional. While Celtic players celebrated another Scottish Premiership title with supporters, Starfelt was watching from afar, knowing he once played his part in helping rebuild the winning mentality that continues to drive the club forward today.
Celtic’s latest title triumph once again highlighted the club’s incredible consistency and dominance within Scottish football. Yet amid all the celebrations, Starfelt’s emotional comments served as a reminder of the strong bonds many former players still maintain with the club long after leaving.
Football can often be ruthless, with players quickly forgotten after transfers and squad changes. But moments like this show how deeply certain clubs remain connected to those who once fought for the badge.
And although Carl Starfelt may fear that some supporters no longer appreciate him, his emotional message has undoubtedly reminded many Celtic fans of the important role he played in one of the club’s most successful modern eras.