The Scottish Premiership kicks off 2026 on Saturday with all 12 teams in action.
Here are the key matchups and players to keep an eye on…
Match of the Day – Celtic vs. Rangers (12:30 GMT)
The showdown between Glasgow’s leading clubs often headlines the Scottish calendar, but this Saturday’s clash at Celtic Park carries extra weight.
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Celtic, now managed by Wilfried Nancy, has faced a tough stretch, suffering five defeats in their last seven matches, three of which were league losses.
This slump has resulted in the defending champions registering five losses in the league as they reach the midway point of the season.
It will be Nancy’s first encounter against Rangers, who trail Celtic by just three points.
Rangers, under Danny Rohl, have fared better, with eight wins and two draws in the league. However, early season draws under Russell Martin have maintained a gap between them and Celtic, as well as a six-point deficit to leaders Hearts.
Rohl has faced Celtic once before with his new squad, suffering a 3-1 defeat in extra time during last November’s Premier Sports Cup semi-final against Martin O’Neill’s side.
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This match is crucial for both teams as they look to stay close to Hearts at the top of the table. Any dropped points could allow Derek McInnes’ team to widen their lead.
Additionally, don’t overlook Motherwell and Hibernian, who are also within striking distance of the Glasgow rivals, although they have played one match more.
An exciting derby awaits.
Player to Watch – Charlie Reilly (Dundee)
Derby day excitement also brews at Tannadice.
Dundee faces Dundee United for the second time this season, having lost the first encounter.
For the visitors, a victory would mark three consecutive wins for the first time this season.
Reilly, who scored the winner against Kilmarnock in a 2-1 triumph on Tuesday, showcased his potential with a stylish finish. Together with Ashley Hay, both players netted their first goals for the club to elevate Dundee to ninth place.
After struggling with injuries, Reilly expressed that his goal on Tuesday was “a long time coming.” Scoring against United would certainly endear him to the Dundee supporters.
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Manager Spotlight – Derek McInnes (Heart of Midlothian)
Derek McInnes has faced defeat three times in his tenure as Hearts manager, with two of those occurring in the Scottish Premiership.
The latest loss was against Edinburgh rivals Hibernian, where Hearts fell 3-2 after trailing 3-0 at one point.
Hearts return home on Saturday to take on struggling bottom club Livingston.
McInnes has bolstered his squad with the signing of right-back Jordi Altena, who may make his debut against Livingston.
With a large and flexible squad at his disposal, McInnes is determined to bounce back after their recent loss.
Following a previous defeat to Aberdeen in November, Hearts managed two draws before finding their winning form again.
McInnes is eager to avoid any further setbacks.