Brendan Rodgers Set to Make Sensational Return as Celtic Manager

Celtic is reportedly in discussions with Brendan Rodgers for his comeback as the team's manager. The Scottish Premiership champions have allegedly proposed a contract that surpasses his previous deal, hence making him the highest-paid manager in the club's history once more.

According to a source, further discussions between the two parties are scheduled for Wednesday after initial talks. It has been revealed that Celtic's board will support Rodgers in the transfer market to enable him to achieve success in domestic competitions and compete in the Champions League.

After leaving Celtic in 2019, Rodgers had intended to take a prolonged break from coaching, following his exit from Leicester City in April. However, despite this, he was rumoured to have been linked to the vacant job at Leeds United. News outlets reported last Monday that he may be considered as a replacement for Ange Postecoglou at Celtic, although the club has also been considering other candidates, such as Enzo Maresca, assistant to Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola.

'I would have no hesitation in going back'

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Rodgers left Celtic for Leicester in 2019 but looks set to return to Glasgow

Despite facing backlash from supporters after leaving Glasgow mid-season, it seems that time has eased tensions and many are now open to the idea of the Northern Irishman returning to Celtic. Rodgers has expressed his willingness to rejoin the team in the past, so could this be the opportunity for a reunion?

"I wouldn't hesitate to return to Parkhead in the future," stated Rodgers upon departing from the club. "Celtic is an incredible club, and timing is everything in life. Whether or not I would be welcomed back is another matter, but I would certainly be keen to go back to Celtic."

Under Rodgers' guidance, Celtic were a team with strong coaching and a decent run in Europe, finishing third in their Champions League group during the 2016/17 season before making it to the next stage of the Europa League. However, their performance dipped the following season, resulting in a bottom-placed finish in their group. Meanwhile, at Leicester City, Rodgers achieved back-to-back fifth-placed finishes and secured a memorable FA Cup victory over Chelsea in 2021. However, he eventually parted ways with the club in April 2022 after they were relegated from the Premier League.

What awaits the next manager?

The last time Celtic were searching for a new manager, the club was in turmoil after losing the league to Rangers by 25 points and several players out on contract.

Rodgers, if appointed to replace Postecoglou, will have the advantage of taking over a team that is in excellent shape and poised for further success. Under Postecoglou's leadership, Celtic has made astute signings that have contributed to their dominance, resulting in five trophies in just two seasons.

If the Australian decides to lure some of the players to Tottenham, fans may become anxious. However, this could work in Celtic's favor as they could potentially receive a significant transfer fee. This infusion of funds could then be utilized to strengthen the team as they gear up for another attempt at the Champions League.

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Kyogo Furuhashi scored 34 goals in all competitions last season

Kyogo Furuhashi, who was scouted from the Japanese market by Postecoglou, has proven to be a valuable addition to the team and is expected to catch the attention of top clubs. The striker emerged as the Premiership's top scorer last season and with only two years remaining on his contract, it is possible that Postecoglou may attempt to lure him to North London.

Reo Hatate, Daizen Maeda, and Cameron Carter-Vickers are all under contract until 2026, while Jota's deal extends until 2027, making it more challenging for any potential suitors to lure them away from the club. Additionally, Celtic's direct entry into the Champions League group stages gives the club and its new manager ample time to prepare their squad, with their first competitive match not taking place until the start of the Premiership season on August 5/6.

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