As is often the case with Celtic, former players are regularly linked with a return to Paradise. Kieran Tierney is one of the latest to spark such rumours, but Brendan Rodgers has skillfully avoided any talk of a potential move for the Arsenal defender.
It’s no surprise that these stories crop up, especially during quieter periods. With international breaks offering a lull in club football, the return of a fan-favourite is often an easy rumour to stir. Tierney’s name is one that frequently reappears in the transfer gossip columns.
Rodgers and Tierney Spotted Together
The speculation around Tierney heightened after both he and Rodgers were pictured together at a Celtic Foundation event in London last Friday. With little else happening on the pitch during the break, it wasn’t long before various outlets were suggesting a potential reunion between the left-back and his former manager.
Rodgers, however, was quick to downplay the situation. Speaking about the event and his relationship with Tierney, he told Celtic Youtube:
“It was great to see him. I’ve always been in contact with Kieran, when we were both down there. Obviously, he’s been out injured so it was a nice touch by the club to invite him.”
Rodgers continued, “He was a great player for this club and it’s unfortunate how it’s went for him at Arsenal with his injuries and other stuff. It doesn’t take much now to get tongues wagging.”
Tierney’s Future Uncertain
While Rodgers has batted away talk of a move, Tierney’s situation remains uncertain. With his contract at Arsenal running until May 2026, there are murmurs from London suggesting that the Gunners may be open to letting him go. Injuries have plagued Tierney’s time in North London, and he spent last season on loan at Real Sociedad.
Tierney hasn’t featured since picking up an injury while playing for Scotland at the European Championships, where the national side drew 1-1 with Switzerland. His fitness will undoubtedly be a key factor in any potential move, but for now, a return to Celtic remains speculative at best.
Greg Taylor, who is currently Celtic’s number one left-back, has a contract that is set to expire at the end of this season. If the club is unable to reach a new deal with him, they may need to enter the transfer market for a left-back come the summer. Alex Valle, the current backup, is on loan from Barcelona, and his future beyond this season is also uncertain.
