Breaking news: Rodgers resigns as Celtic manager
Celtic Football Club confirmed on Monday evening that Brendan Rodgers has tendered his resignation and left his role with immediate effect. The news comes after a challenging start to the Scottish Premiership campaign, with the champions eight points adrift of leaders Hearts after nine games.
What happened
In a club statement, Celtic thanked Rodgers for his contribution during two successful spells at Parkhead and acknowledged the decision as a resignation that the club has accepted. The statement also noted that the process to appoint a new permanent manager is underway.
Interim leadership appointed
For the interim period, former Celtic manager Martin O’Neill and former player Shaun Maloney have agreed to take charge of first-team affairs. The club stressed that further details would be confirmed soon as they manage the transition.
Context: results and scrutiny
The resignation arrives after a run of results that disappointed supporters and put Rodgers under increased pressure. A 3-1 defeat to Hearts away from home highlighted concerns about form and investment in the squad this season. The club will now look to steady the ship while officials conduct a full search for a permanent successor.
Historical perspective
Rodgers’ return to Celtic in 2023 marked a second spell at the helm. His first period, from 2016 to 2019, included a record 106-point season and an undefeated top-flight campaign—the first by a Scottish side since 1899. While the latest chapter did not replicate that earlier success, the club’s leadership recognizes the impact of his previous work and the need for a fresh plan moving forward.
What’s next for Celtic
The club has confirmed that the process to appoint a new permanent manager is underway. In the interim, O’Neill’s vast experience in Scottish and European football will be put to use, alongside Maloney, who has recent Celtic ties as a former player. Supporters will be looking for early signs of a strategy for squad investment, player development, and competitive consistency as they navigate a demanding season.
Fan sentiment and future outlook
Discontent around this campaign has centered on questions about transfer activity and squad depth. The leadership change could be a turning point for Celtic, contingent on how effectively the interim approach translates into on-pitch results and how swiftly a permanent appointment aligns with long-term ambitions.
Closing thoughts
While the club thanks Rodgers for his contributions, the focus shifts to the next phase of Celtic’s journey. As the search for a new manager begins, the Celtics community will anticipate clarity on the club’s direction, investment strategy, and the blueprint for sustaining domestic and European competitiveness.
