During the 1990–91 Scottish football season, Celtic competed in the Scottish Premier Division. After finishing 5th the previous season, the club missed out on European competition for the first time since the 1978–79 season. In preparation for the new campaign, manager Billy McNeill strengthened his squad by signing Arsenal winger Martin Hayes, former Celtic hero Charlie Nicholas, and rising star John Collins.
Celtic endured a poor start to the league season, losing their first two matches. Although there was a brief recovery, the team's form remained inconsistent, and by March 1991, the league title was already out of reach. A run of three consecutive defeats at the end of March and into early April ended any lingering hopes of a resurgence. Ultimately, Celtic finished third behind Aberdeen and champions Rangers, who secured their third consecutive title under new manager Walter Smith.
In the 1990–91 Scottish League Cup, Celtic reached the final after overcoming lower-league opposition in the early rounds and defeating Dundee United in the semi-final. However, they suffered a heartbreaking extra-time loss to Rangers in a thrilling final, extending their trophy drought.
The 1990–91 Scottish Cup also brought disappointment. Celtic, aiming to reach their fourth consecutive final, gained a measure of hope with a famous St. Patrick's Day victory over rivals Rangers. However, a semi-final replay defeat to Motherwell dashed any remaining hopes of silverware for the 1990–91 season.
Following another trophyless campaign and after spending over £2 million on new signings, the board of directors dismissed Billy McNeill, ending his long-standing association with the club.
Pre-season and friendlies
Celtic prepared for the 1990–91 season with a tour of Germany and Holland before travelling to Ireland to play in the Bohemian F.C. centenary celebration match. Celtic rounded off their preparations with a home friendly against Everton F.C.
