Brendan Rodgers hit at two celtic’s player about their fitness. He explain why the two player may not have enough playing time when the new season start but however, it’s a decision fans are not please with.
Brendan Rodgers’ recent comments regarding the fitness levels of two Celtic players have stirred significant reaction among the Hoops faithful, highlighting a growing tension between managerial decisions and supporter expectations as the new season draws near. The manager’s straightforward assessment came during a press briefing where he addressed the physical condition of these unnamed players, admitting that their current form does not meet the required standards for regular first-team action when the campaign kicks off.
While Rodgers did not completely shut the door on their involvement, his words strongly suggested that the pair may find themselves sidelined at the beginning of the season unless a major turnaround in fitness is achieved. His emphasis on professionalism, match readiness, and consistency was clear factors he believes are non-negotiable for anyone aiming to start in a Celtic shirt. In his view, no player should be guaranteed minutes based on name alone; performance and preparation are the key benchmarks.
However, Rodgers’ stance has sparked frustration among fans who view the players in question as crucial to the squad. For many supporters, these individuals are not only fan favourites but have previously delivered in key matches, making the idea of their reduced involvement hard to accept. The argument from the terraces is rooted in loyalty and emotion supporters believe that a manager should trust and back players with a track record, rather than push them aside due to preseason issues.
This situation exposes the delicate balancing act Rodgers must perform. As a manager with ambitions of reclaiming domestic dominance and making a deeper push in Europe, he is under pressure to ensure that every player on the pitch is performing at their peak. From his perspective, sending a strong message about fitness and commitment may serve as a motivational tool, urging the entire squad to raise their standards. But in doing so, he risks alienating segments of the fanbase who may see these moves as overly harsh or disrespectful to long-serving players.
Furthermore, there’s a broader concern about depth and squad readiness. If two first-team regulars are already being ruled out for early fixtures, it raises questions about Celtic’s preparation for the new season. Fans fear that the club may not have done enough to strengthen or condition the squad during the offseason, and Rodgers’ comments only fuel those concerns.
Still, there’s an argument in support of Rodgers’ transparency. Managers are often criticized for vague responses and lack of accountability; in this case, Rodgers has been direct. His honesty, while not universally appreciated, at least provides clarity on his expectations and intentions.
As the season nears, all eyes will be on whether these two players respond positively to the challenge or if Rodgers will have to make do without them in the critical opening weeks. The tension between ambition and sentiment is evident, and how Rodgers navigates it may define the early tone of Celtic’s season.
