Celtic Dressing Room in Turmoil as Star Player Slams Rodgers Over Post-Match Comments: “He Shouldn’t Have Said That”
Celtic’s dressing room is reportedly in chaos following manager Brendan Rodgers’ post-match comments after the team’s tense 1-1 draw against Rangers in the Old Firm derby. The match, which ended in a hard-fought stalemate, saw both sides share the spoils, but it is Rodgers’ comments in his post-match interview that have ignited a storm within the Celtic squad. The source of the unrest? A strong disagreement from one of the team’s standout performers, who has now publicly criticized his manager’s remarks.
Following the final whistle, Rodgers was quick to speak about the team’s performance, praising the collective effort but also highlighting areas where he felt Celtic could have done better. However, the nature of his statements, particularly about individual player performances, seems to have struck a nerve with some members of the squad. Maeda, who was one of the standout performers on the pitch during the match, especially in the second half, is reportedly “furious” over Rodgers’ comments, feeling that his contribution was undermined by the manager’s words.
Rodgers had stated that certain players, including those in key attacking positions, “didn’t show enough composure” in front of goal, and that the team’s overall attacking play lacked the sharpness and clinical edge required in such high-stakes matches. While the manager didn’t name names, it was clear that his remarks were directed at the forward line, and many assumed he was referring to Maeda, who had missed a couple of crucial chances during the match.
According to sources close to the team, Maeda, who has been one of Celtic’s most consistent performers this season, felt deeply disrespected by Rodgers’ public criticism. After the match, the Japanese forward reportedly approached Rodgers in the dressing room, expressing his frustration. Sources claim that Maeda was “furious” and made it clear that Rodgers’ comments were “unwarranted” and “hurtful,” especially given the efforts he had put in throughout the game.
In a tense exchange, Maeda is said to have told Rodgers,
“You shouldn’t have said that. I gave everything out there. It’s not fair to single out players like that after we all fought so hard.” The heated confrontation was said to have been witnessed by several players, some of whom are understood to have sided with Maeda, while others remained neutral.
Reports suggest that the mood in the dressing room was one of disarray following the argument. While Maeda’s frustration is understandable having been one of the most committed players on the field, tirelessly running the channels and creating opportunities for his teammates Rodgers’ comments appear to have caused a fracture within the squad, which had previously been operating under a strong sense of unity.
Maeda’s reaction isn’t the only sign of discontent. Other players are believed to have voiced their concerns privately, with some questioning Rodgers’ approach to team management and the timing of his comments. In particular, certain players have reportedly expressed their belief that Rodgers should have kept his thoughts internal and dealt with the issue in a more private manner, rather than airing grievances publicly.
The timing of Rodgers’ comments has also raised eyebrows. With Celtic still very much in the title race and only a few games remaining in the season, the last thing the squad needs is internal discord. As the team prepares for crucial matches ahead, including a Scottish Cup Final against Rangers later this month, the last thing Rodgers would want is for his players to become divided.
Maeda’s disappointment with the manager’s words has led to speculation about his future at the club. Although the Japanese international has been a fan favorite since his arrival at Celtic Park, his frustration with Rodgers could spark questions about his long-term commitment. Maeda, who has been linked with moves to bigger clubs across Europe, could now be reconsidering his position at Celtic if the tension with the manager is not addressed.
This situation has created a difficult dilemma for Rodgers. As a manager known for his strong leadership and tactical acumen, Rodgers will have to walk a fine line in the coming days. On one hand, he needs to address the concerns of his star players and restore harmony within the squad. On the other, he must maintain control over the dressing room and ensure his authority is not undermined by public displays of discontent.
Rodgers has faced criticism in the past for his communication style, and this latest incident could amplify doubts about his management of big personalities within the squad. Celtic’s dressing room was previously seen as a close-knit unit, but with the tension now bubbling to the surface, it remains to be seen how the manager will handle the fallout.
As for Maeda, his role in Celtic’s upcoming matches will likely remain crucial, especially given his ability to stretch defenses and his tireless work rate. However, his relationship with Rodgers is now under intense scrutiny, and fans will be watching closely to see if the two can reconcile in time for the next high-profile fixture.
The Old Firm derby is a match that never lacks drama, but the events that have unfolded in the wake of this latest encounter have raised the stakes even higher. As Celtic prepare for a busy end to the season, the question remains: can Brendan Rodgers regain control of the situation and keep his squad united, or will this dispute with one of his star players become a larger issue that hinders Celtic’s push for silverware? The coming days will be pivotal for the future of both the manager and the team.
