Brendan Rodgers Open to Contract Extension at Celtic
Brendan Rodgers has expressed his willingness to extend his contract with Celtic, despite feeling "empty" after a disappointing summer transfer window.
The manager of Celtic has openly voiced his frustration regarding the club's inability to strengthen the squad prior to their elimination from the Champions League play-offs against Kazakhstan's Kairat Almaty.
In response to the club's lack of activity in the transfer market, fans are planning protests against the board, and there have been reports suggesting that this situation could lead Rodgers to leave before his contract expires next summer.
However, speaking publicly for the first time since the transfer window closed, he conveyed optimism about the possibility of extending his contract, provided the circumstances align favorably.
When asked if he felt let down by the club's lack of support, Rodgers stated, "It's not about me. I want Celtic to be the very best that it can be. My ambition is for the club, our supporters, and the players. It's not a personal thing for me. I can only do my very best to improve what it is we need to improve. Whatever situation I'm in, I will then look to be the very best that I can be."
Reflecting on his previous tenure at Celtic, he noted, "The first time I was here, I probably left because of that frustration at lack of backing. But I won't be doing that this time. Absolutely no chance - 100%. My duty is to be here and help the team, the squad, and the club get back on track."
Frustration has been mounting among Celtic supporters over the lack of new signings, particularly in the attacking department. Key players Kyogo Furuhashi and Nicolas Kuhn have departed, while Jota's potential return has been hindered by injury. Although some signings have been made, only Benjamin Nygren has made a noticeable impact.
Rodgers admitted that the transfer window "could have been better for us," but emphasized that it did not lead him to consider resigning. "It didn't make me think to walk away. I just felt empty, if I'm honest. It was a long process, and the weight is on your shoulders when you're here, carrying everything. When it doesn't quite go the way you want, then of course you have an empty feeling," he explained.
When asked if this summer's events had influenced his thoughts about remaining with the club beyond the current season, Rodgers replied, "No, it hasn't really changed from the last time. I would love to stay here longer. I've had informal discussions with Dermot Desmond, the majority shareholder, and Michael Nicholson, the chief executive. I haven't received a formal offer yet to consider, and until that happens, I won't presume to say, 'yes, I want to be here for another three years.' The club might not want me here."
He concluded by saying, "If not, then perhaps there are two philosophies that don't quite align, and I accept that. I'll always be a Celtic supporter for the rest of my life, and we'll go our separate ways. But my hope was to return here and help the club move forward."