Brendan Rodgers Prepares for Five-a-Side Amid Transfer Rumors

Celtic Manager Brendan Rodgers Prepares for Weekend Amid Transfer Rumours

The summer transfer window has been buzzing with speculation surrounding Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers. If all the latest transfer rumours hold any weight, Rodgers jokingly indicated he would be "preparing for a five-a-side game this weekend" due to the numerous players linked with exits from Parkhead.

Players Linked to Moves

Key players such as Matt O'Riley, Reo Hatate, and Kyogo Furuhashi have consistently been at the center of transfer discussions. Despite only two new signings this summer, Celtic has added goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel and Viljami Sinisalo, along with making the loans of Adam Idah and Paulo Bernardo permanent.

O'Riley's Potential Move to Brighton

Addressing speculation about O'Riley potentially moving to Brighton, Rodgers expressed calmness concerning the chatter. "There have been so many players linked with moving away. There's nothing concrete, there's clearly interest in him and a number of other players," he told Sky Sports News.

Focus on Upcoming Matches

Despite the growing speculation, the Celtic boss emphasized his focus on the upcoming game against St Mirren. "We're very clear and very focused on preparing for St Mirren, and until I get told otherwise, that's what we're doing," said Rodgers.

Kyogo's Injury Update

Rodgers also addressed the links suggesting Manchester City was eyeing Kyogo, who is recovering from a shoulder injury. "There's been nothing from Man City. It's obviously rumour and gossip. My priority is preparing the team for the weekend," he said.

Champions League Ambitions

With the Champions League draw just around the corner, Rodgers acknowledged the necessity for squad improvement. He stated, "The challenge for us is to improve... That improvement will come with bringing in a certain level of quality that will help us in European football." He reiterated the club's intentions to be active in the transfer market as they strive to build a stronger team.

The Upcoming Transfer Window

Rodgers highlighted the importance of not relying solely on outgoing transfers, revealing that he expects Celtic to bolster the squad in the coming week. "We haven't spent a great deal of money in terms of where we're at and where we expect to be at as a club," he explained. The commitment to improvement is evident as the team prepares for challenges ahead.

Conclusion

Brendan Rodgers remains focused and determined despite the swirling transfer speculations surrounding Celtic FC. With crucial matches on the horizon and the Champions League draw awaiting, the manager's commitment to strengthening the squad is paramount. Fans eagerly await how the transfer market unfolds as they strive for European success.