James McFadden has questioned whether Brendan Rodgers will remain in charge at Celtic beyond his current contract, suggesting the manager’s long-term future could hinge on transfer backing.
Rodgers is currently in his second spell as Celtic boss, having returned in the summer of 2023. His reappointment came four years after he left midway through the 2018-19 season for Leicester City, a departure that caused shockwaves across Scottish football at the time.
Since his return, Celtic have continued to win silverware, but recruitment has been a constant talking point.
McFadden believes that uncertainty over recruitment could be a decisive factor in whether Rodgers extends his stay, stressing that the club’s backing, or lack of it, will play a major role in the manager’s decision.
He said: (Open Goal), “I am not sure. I think that might play a part (re transfers), why it’s not been perfect, in terms of recruitment from the summer.
“I think, depending on whether he feels happy with the recruitment at the start of the season. I am not sure.
“I think, because he left and the way he left the first time, maybe he has come back and thought, he doesn’t want to do that again, or maybe he appreciates where he is and what he can do. If he doesn’t feel backed, then I can’t see him staying any longer.”
Rodgers’ first departure left many supporters feeling betrayed, but McFadden suggested the Irishman may now have a greater appreciation for the job and the expectations that come with it.
That appreciation, however, might not be enough if he feels restricted in building the squad he wants.
If the board fails to match Rodgers’ ambitions in the transfer market, McFadden’s warning could prove accurate. The current transfer window might not just shape Celtic’s squad, it could determine whether Rodgers remains at the helm beyond his current deal.
For now, his future remains open-ended, with all eyes on how the club approaches the next month in terms of recruitment and backing for Rodgers.
