Celtic Football Club has recently experienced the departure of several key players, each exit marked by unique circumstances and emotional responses from manager Brendan Rodgers.
Liel Abada’s Transfer to Charlotte FC
In March 2024, Liel Abada, the Israeli international winger, transferred to Major League Soccer side Charlotte FC. This move came shortly after Abada had committed to a new four-year contract with Celtic in September 2023. His last appearance for the club was in early February 2024. The transfer was influenced by external factors, including the ongoing conflict in Gaza, which placed Abada under significant pressure in his homeland, especially considering some Celtic supporters had shown support for Palestine. Manager Brendan Rodgers expressed his deep sadness over Abada’s departure, stating, “It’s desperately sad, the whole situation… He’s created some wonderful memories here and we wish him all the very best in America.”
Matt O’Riley’s Record-Breaking Move to Brighton
In September 2024, midfielder Matt O’Riley secured a transfer to Premier League club Brighton & Hove Albion for a record fee exceeding the £25 million previously received for Kieran Tierney and Jota. O’Riley agreed to a five-year contract with Brighton, marking a significant step in his career. While acknowledging the financial benefits of the deal, Rodgers admitted the timing was challenging, stating, “It’s not ideal, but it’s the reality of where the club is at.” He expressed pride in O’Riley’s development and the opportunity to play in the Premier League but emphasized the difficulty in finding a suitable replacement late in the transfer window.
Sead Haksabanovic’s Departure to Malmö FF
In July 2024, Montenegrin international Sead Haksabanovic departed Celtic to join Swedish champions Malmö FF. Haksabanovic revealed that while the Celtic board wished to retain him, it was Rodgers who decided on his exit. He stated, “Yes, mostly him (Rodgers), because the board wanted me to stay. They believed in me but he had other plans.” This decision followed a period where Haksabanovic experienced limited playing time and a loan spell at Stoke City.
Alexandro Bernabei’s Loan to Internacional
On the same day as Abada’s departure, Argentine defender Alexandro Bernabei joined Brazilian side Internacional on loan. Rodgers admitted it wasn’t a deal Celtic wanted to pursue but respected Bernabei’s desire for more playing time. He expressed confidence in the squad’s depth to cover the left-back position, mentioning, “Liam Scales can play there and we have other options.”
Brendan Rodgers’ Commitment to Celtic
Despite these significant player departures, Brendan Rodgers reaffirmed his dedication to Celtic in October 2024. Addressing past concerns over his commitment, Rodgers stated, “I signed for three years and I guarantee I will be here for three years unless I get emptied before that, as they say up here!” He acknowledged the emotional impact of his previous exit and expressed a desire to mend relationships with supporters, emphasizing his commitment to the club’s future success.
These transitions highlight a period of change for Celtic FC, with Brendan Rodgers navigating the challenges of player departures while maintaining a focus on the club’s long-term objectives.
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