Celtic Manager Brendan Rodgers Addresses Player Contracts, His Future, and European Aspirations

Brendan Rodgers held a press conference in anticipation of Celtic’s upcoming match against Hearts on Saturday. Key statements from the manager included his satisfaction with Alistair Johnston’s new contract, noting he is “really pleased” and senses Johnston’s affection for the club. Regarding Greg Taylor, Rodgers indicated that while a new agreement is not imminent, he “really wants him to stay here.” Addressing Nicolas Kuhn’s prospects for the Germany squad, Rodgers asserted that the winger “can’t do much more” to make an impression on Julian Nagelsmann. Concerning his own future at Celtic, Rodgers stated: “I said I’d be here for three years. At the end of three years I’ll have done nearly six years. I haven’t really thought about it. For nearly a year there were probably more people who wanted me out than in so I’m not going to be talking about new contracts now.” He further elaborated: “I just need to continue to work well and do my best for the club and then I’m pretty sure at some point next season we can see how we’re going and take it from there. Coming back has made it better for me because I knew what I missed when I was away so I’m not in a big rush to be leaving it again.” Addressing Celtic’s progress in the Champions League, Rodgers remarked that “we haven’t done anything yet” but expressed optimism that the current season would provide supporters with the “feeling we all want” – a squad that excels domestically while also demonstrating its strength as a club in European competitions. He confirmed that no new injuries occurred following the international break, with all players returning in good condition. Cameron Carter-Vickers, despite being fit prior to the break, was omitted from the Kilmarnock match lineup as a precautionary measure. Rodgers indicated that the centre-back would not be expected to play every game, nor was it necessary for him to do so. The Celtic manager anticipates a demanding fixture against Hearts, noting that their current league standing does not fully reflect the quality of some of their displays. Alexandro Bernabei, presently on loan at Internacional, is scheduled to rejoin the team in January. Rodgers commented that it’s “great that he’s gone away and done well,” but any further assessment would be deferred until his return. Regarding Dan Cummings and other developing players, Rodgers emphasized that success is not solely dependent on goal-scoring or on-field performance, stating: “it’s your mentality and professionalism alongside ability that is what gets you the opportunity.”