Manchester City’s first preseason friendly match against Celtic ended in a loss. In a very thrilling encounter played in the United States, the Scots won (3-4) thanks to a goal by Luis Palma.

Preseason is a time for experimentation. Whenever possible, it’s preferable to work out any kinks in the months preceding the official tournament rather than during play. Or at least that is what Pep Guardiola has to be thinking following his 2024–25 Manchester City debut.

Celtic surprised the Sky Blues even without all of their international players, since he still needs to heal from those who competed in the European Championship, Copa America, and the Olympics. It is rare to witness seven goals with just one goal separating the two teams in modern football.

Preseason errors and a lack of defensive discipline resulted in numerous goals, as usual. The initial one among them immense happiness.