Adam Idah has risked angering Celtic supporters after openly declaring his long-term ambition was always to return to English football.
Idah joined Celtic initially on loan in January 2024, playing a huge role in Brendan Rodgers’ side lifting silverware. His impact earned him a £9.5 million permanent move last summer, but after just a year he has turned his back on Glasgow, framing Swansea as the real project he wanted to commit to.
The Republic of Ireland international praised Celtic by calling them one of the biggest clubs in world football, yet he immediately undercut the sentiment by insisting his “end goal” was never to remain in Scotland. For many supporters, his remarks will come across as disrespectful, particularly given the faith Rodgers showed in him and the platform Celtic provided for him to shine.
He said: (Swansea AFC YouTube), “I am really excited about the move, when I heard Swansea were interested and I spoke with the owners, spoke with the manager and to Darren (O’Dea) about the club and the project here going forward it was a no-brainer for me to come here.
“I am really looking forward to getting down to work. There is a real ambition to make the club successful, and I feel the role they want me to take here is a great fit for me.
“Celtic are one of the biggest clubs in world football, but for me the end goal is to come back to playing in the English leagues and to try and get back to the Premier League.
“The owners were great, they were very clear in what they want for the club. They were brilliant and I hope I can help, and the boys here can help me.”
Celtic fans will feel his words show a lack of appreciation for the club that reignited his career and gave him the platform for a big-money move. His contribution to last season’s success is not in doubt, but his readiness to downplay Celtic’s role in his development speaks volumes.
Brendan Rodgers had publicly backed Idah and pushed to make his loan permanent, a move that now looks wasted given the player’s apparent lack of commitment to the club’s future. Instead, Idah has positioned Celtic as little more than a stepping stone to reach England again.
The £7 million fee will soften the blow financially, but the sting of his comments is likely to linger longer among supporters. Idah leaves with medals and memories, but also with a reputation damaged by his own words.
Now, Rodgers must turn the page quickly, ensuring Celtic’s attack is rebuilt around players who want to be part of the club’s journey, not just passing through it.
