Brendan Rodgers, the mastermind behind Celtic’s current dominance, is on the verge of clinching his third domestic treble with the club this season. This remarkable achievement marks his first since rejoining Celtic in 2023, solidifying his reputation as one of the most successful managers in the club’s recent history. Under his guidance, the team has not only excelled domestically but has also made significant strides in European competitions. Notably, Celtic’s journey in the Champions League this season saw them progress from the league phase and deliver a commendable performance against giants like Bayern Munich in the knockout stages. Rodgers’ tactical brilliance and ability to inspire his squad have been pivotal in these accomplishments, further cementing his legacy at Parkhead.
Rodgers’ success at Celtic has inevitably sparked speculation about his future. Keith Wyness, a respected football executive with experience at clubs like Everton and Aston Villa, recently suggested that Rodgers might be eager to explore new challenges, much like his predecessor Ange Postecoglou, who left Celtic for Tottenham. Wyness, speaking on Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, emphasized that Rodgers still has the potential to make an impact at a higher level. Despite his achievements, Rodgers’ career has often been marked by near-misses and untapped potential, leaving many to wonder if his next move could finally propel him to the pinnacle of European football.
Rodgers’ managerial journey has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows. His tenure at Liverpool, though memorable, ended abruptly, and his subsequent spell at Leicester City, while yielding an FA Cup and Community Shield, concluded with his dismissal. However, his second stint at Celtic has been nothing short of transformative. With 67 wins in 94 games and a win percentage of 71.3%, Rodgers has proven his ability to consistently deliver results. Wyness believes that clubs like Bayern Munich, who have struggled to maintain their dominance in recent years, could benefit from Rodgers’ tactical expertise and innovative approach. The performance against Bayern Munich earlier this season, in particular, showcased Celtic’s ability to compete with Europe’s elite under Rodgers’ leadership.
While Rodgers’ future remains a topic of discussion, he isn’t the only Celtic figure attracting attention. Nicolas Kuhn, the German winger, has been a standout performer this season, contributing 18 goals and 12 assists in 39 appearances. His electrifying form has reportedly caught the eye of Premier League clubs, with Newcastle United rumored to be preparing a £25 million bid. Kuhn’s potential departure would follow in the footsteps of Matt O’Riley, who made a high-profile move to Brighton in 2024. As Celtic continues to nurture and develop top talent, the club’s ability to retain its stars amid growing interest from wealthier leagues remains a pressing challenge.
As the season progresses, the focus at Celtic will undoubtedly remain on securing silverware and maintaining their domestic supremacy. However, the speculation surrounding Rodgers and key players like Kuhn highlights the broader dynamics at play in modern football. For Rodgers, the allure of a new challenge at a top European club could be irresistible, while for Celtic, the task of balancing ambition with sustainability continues. Whether Rodgers stays or departs, his impact on Celtic’s recent success is undeniable, and his next move will be closely watched by fans and pundits alike.