Former Celtic defender Jozo Simunovic has opened up about how Brendan Rodgers’ guidance during their time at Parkhead continues to influence his ambitions as a coach. Now an assistant with Dinamo Zagreb’s Under-19s, Simunovic hopes to step into management one day and believes the lessons he learned under Rodgers will be key to his development.
The 29-year-old was at the Maksimir Stadium to watch his two former clubs from his playing days face off in the Champions League. Ahead of the game, Simunovic spent time catching up with John Kennedy at Celtic’s Zagreb base, praising Rodgers’ right-hand man for the ongoing support he provides.
Speaking about Kennedy, Jozo told RecordSport they had a meet up: “Every time, we speak together, spending time. He’s been great for me personally and for the team. John is a top, top guy, so every time when I come over, or in this case he came here, we have a chat and it is good to spend time with the guys.”
Celtic’s European Growth
Simunovic is also encouraged by Celtic’s progression under Rodgers, believing the team is now better equipped to compete at the highest level in Europe. “With this new format, it works really well. So many teams and so many games. Hopefully, that’s definitely what Celtic likes. But also, we can say format and blah, blah, but the team is also in good shape, it is looking good, playing good, so that’s the most important part of all,” he said.
The former centre-back is confident Celtic can progress beyond the group stages, although he acknowledges the challenges of playing away from home. “Of course, it is always hard to play away games. It is not the same [as Celtic Park] in terms of atmosphere with the fans and everything. But, at the end of the day, a point each was well deserved.”
Jozo has a special place in Celtic fans’ hearts for two reasons: THAT tackle on Kenny Miller and scoring A 67th minute-winner at Celtic Park the week the club was mourning the passing of one of its favourite sons, Billy McNeill. It was a magical moment.
From Paradise to the Dugout
Simunovic’s time at Celtic, shaped by the leadership of Rodgers and Kennedy, has clearly left its mark. As he continues to hone his skills on the sidelines at Dinamo, the former defender carries the lessons of his Paradise days into his journey towards becoming a manager. While his playing career was cut short by injuries, perhaps he can make his mark as a boss.
