Brendan Rodgers has addressed recent speculation surrounding Kyogo, making it clear he wouldn’t stand in the way of a player leaving if they wished to move on.
However, he emphasised that he has seen no signs of a change in Kyogo’s demeanour despite reported interest from MLS side Atlanta United.
Reports linking the Japanese striker to Atlanta gained traction after an erroneous post on the Major League Soccer website claimed the 29-year-old was heading to the States. The timing of the report raised eyebrows, as Kyogo was on the bench and later featured for Celtic in a match that same evening.
Kyogo has been a standout performer for Celtic since his £4.5 million move from Vissel Kobe, quickly becoming a fan favourite. With 162 appearances and 85 goals to his name, the Japan international has firmly established himself as one of the Premiership’s most clinical forwards. Although this season started slower than usual, Kyogo has rediscovered his form, netting 10 league goals in 21 matches.
Rodgers praised Kyogo’s contribution and dismissed any doubts about the striker’s commitment: “For him [Kyogo] at this moment in time, he’s happy, he’s working well, scoring goals, and enjoying his football,” Rodgers told Sky Sports. “I see him every day—his work, his intensity. Maybe he scores so much he doesn’t feel the need to celebrate wildly all the time. Or maybe it was too cold! But he’s just the same guy.”
During Celtic’s recent 4-1 win over Ross County, Rodgers experimented tactically, deploying Kyogo on the left wing and allowing Irish striker Adam Idah to lead the line. The shift paid dividends, with both players contributing effectively.
Rodgers also expressed satisfaction with Idah’s performances so far this season, dismissing the idea that Celtic need a striker capable of scoring 30 to 40 goals annually:
“Adam has been fantastic for us, and we’re not putting that kind of pressure on anyone. It’s about the collective effort and what each player brings to the team.”
As Celtic prepare to face Dundee tonight at Dens Park, it remains to be seen whether Rodgers will stick with his tactical tweaks or revert to a more conventional setup. Either way, Kyogo and Idah will likely play key roles as the Hoops aim to maintain their momentum at the top of the table.
