Brendan Rodgers Previews Leipzig Clash, Addresses UEFA Sanctions, and Defensive Dilemma

Ahead of Celtic’s Champions League fixture against RB Leipzig on Tuesday, manager Brendan Rodgers addressed the media, outlining several key points. Rodgers stated that “every game for Celtic in the Champions League is like a cup final” and emphasized that his team will “need to bring their ‘A-game'” for the upcoming match against the Bundesliga club, RB Leipzig, requiring a nearly perfect performance. The manager anticipates a challenge akin to those encountered against Atalanta and Borussia Dortmund, characterizing Leipzig as “a top team, who have everything you want in a top European side – speed, strength, power and technique.” He further remarked that “it’s a brilliant challenge for his side, and one they’re looking forward too”. Rodgers highlighted that patience would be crucial during the game, noting that while players might be inclined to press, sustaining such intensity would not be feasible. He acknowledged that Celtic would need to engage in defensive play for significant durations, requiring both concentration and commitment. Furthermore, the Celtic manager issued a warning to supporters regarding the use of pyrotechnics, stating, “it’s not something we want to see, especially with that Uefa sanction hanging over the fans.” Regarding team updates, Rodgers confirmed that all players are fit, but he declined to elaborate on whether he faces a difficult choice for the centre-back position between Auston Trusty and Liam Scales.