Scottish Premiership 2024/25: Key Highlights and Expectations

The Exciting Return of the Scottish Premiership

Fresh hopes, new dreams, and unrivalled drama signal the much-anticipated return of the Scottish Premiership. As the new season kicks off, fans can look forward to exhilarating matches and breathtaking performances from their favorite teams.

Opening Weekend Highlights

This season, Sky Sports is set to broadcast an astounding four games live on the opening weekend, starting with:

• Hearts vs. Rangers on Saturday, August 3
• Celtic vs. Kilmarnock on Sunday, August 4
• Dundee United vs. Dundee - a highly anticipated derby, also on August 4
• St Johnstone vs. Aberdeen on Monday night

Additionally, fans can catch Motherwell vs. Ross County on Saturday, while Hibernian embarks on a new journey with their head coach David Gray at St Mirren on Sunday.

Celtic's Title Defense

The 2024/25 Scottish Premiership season sees Brendan Rodgers' Celtic enter as strong favorites to clinch their fourth consecutive title. Their successful pre-season campaign, which included victories over top English clubs like Manchester City and Chelsea, has set a positive tone.

Celtic has retained talent like Matt O'Riley while welcoming new No. 1 goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel, adding depth to their lineup.

Rangers' Challenges Ahead

Contrastingly, Rangers under manager Philippe Clement face significant challenges with numerous player changes and a demanding rebuild. With an aim to thwart Celtic’s dominance, the pressure is on to rejuvenate their squad amid stadium work delays that have forced a temporary move to Hampden Park.

Potential European Contenders

Beyond the title race, Hearts not only aim to secure a higher league position but also tackle the challenges of competing in European tournaments. The team's captain, Lawrence Shankland, plays a pivotal role in their ambitions.

Similarly, Kilmarnock and St Mirren are expecting to replicate last season's surprises, while teams like Hibernian and Aberdeen are keen to reclaim their spots in the top six.

Derby Matches to Look Out For

The revival of Dundee United in the Premiership brings heightened excitement with more derby clashes scheduled this season:

• Old Firm Clash: Celtic vs. Rangers on September 1
• First Edinburgh Derby: Hibernian vs. Hearts on October 26
• Dundee Derby: Dundee United vs. Dundee on the upcoming weekend

New Faces and Coaching Changes

The season not only brings fresh talent on the field but new management in many teams. Aberdeen will be led by Jimmy Thelin while Dundee United welcomes back Jim Goodwin to the top flight.

Motherwell has been particularly active in the transfer market, adding key players like Ross Callachan and Liam Gordon.

As teams gear up for what promises to be an exciting season, fans eagerly await how the new signings influence their clubs' fortunes.

Conclusion

The Scottish Premiership is ready to captivate fans with thrilling matches, intense rivalries, and new stories waiting to unfold. Make sure to catch all the action live on Sky Sports!

Note: For updates and live action from the Scottish Premiership, subscribe to Sky Sports or download the Sky Sports App for your mobile devices!