Benjamin Nygren has made a strong early impression on Brendan Rodgers, with the Celtic manager praising the Swedish midfielder’s impact since arriving at Lennoxtown earlier this summer.
The 24-year-old was snapped up from Danish side FC Nordsjaelland in a low-cost deal, with Celtic moving quickly to secure his signature before the start of pre-season.
Nygren’s versatility and movement have caught the eye in training and friendly matches, offering Rodgers another attacking option as he reshapes his squad for the new campaign. Despite the modest fee, reported to be just under £2 million, Celtic believe they’ve landed a player with significant upside.
The midfielder had less than a year remaining on his contract with Nordsjaelland, where he served as club captain and developed a reputation for technical quality and intelligent pressing.
Celtic’s recruitment team saw an opportunity and pounced, with Rodgers now confident the club have made a smart piece of business.
Rodgers highlighted the player’s leadership and adaptability, but also pointed to areas where he wants improvement. With Celtic pushing for domestic dominance and a return to the Champions League group stages, Nygren’s development will be closely monitored.
He said: (RecordSport), “I’m really excited about him.
“He’s a talent, but it’s about how these boys adapt to the pressure of being at Celtic. So far, he has done very well.
“He moves so well. He’s fluid, he can play, one or two touches.
“I want to improve the intensity of his pressing but that will come. He covers the ground so easily. He can take the ball up the pitch and he has a lovely, deft pass on him.
“He’s a young player but he’s also a leader. He’s got a profile, he’s got authority. He was obviously captain for his former club so has great leadership qualities.
“He was obviously coming to the end of his contract and we were looking to maximise the value, so he’s clearly worth a lot more than that.”
Nygren’s arrival adds depth to Celtic’s attacking midfield options, and his ability to slot into multiple roles gives Rodgers flexibility as he prepares for a congested fixture schedule. The player’s technical attributes align with Rodgers’ system, while his calmness in possession has already stood out.
Rodgers has often spoken about the need for players with character, and it’s clear he sees that in Nygren. Whether he becomes a mainstay in the starting XI or an important rotational option, the Swede is already turning heads.
