On the day Kieran Tierney was officially unveiled as a Celtic player for the second time, the defender confirmed what many had suspected, his return to the Hoops had been on the cards for some time.
The Scotland international has signed a five-year deal after leaving Arsenal on a free transfer, marking a significant homecoming for a player who rose through the ranks at Celtic before departing for North London in 2019.
While Tierney didn’t go into specifics, it had been previously reported that Celtic explored loan moves for him in the summers of 2023 and 2024, and again in January, in a bid to bring him back early. Those moves never materialised, but the club finally got their man this summer, not long after Arsenal opted against triggering a one-year extension in his contract.
He said: (Celtic FC YouTube), “I think it was perfect timing for everybody. It had been in the works before but wasn’t able to happen.
“This time, I think everything just fell into place. I spoke with the manager — obviously, I’ve worked with the gaffer before and I’ve always kept in touch with him.
“He’s one of the best, and I’m so lucky and grateful that he’s given me the chance to come back again.”
Tierney’s reunion with Rodgers and his return to the Hoops where it all began brings added experience and quality to the Celtic back line, as he looks to kickstart a new chapter in familiar surroundings.
With Greg Taylor reportedly on the verge of joining Greek side PAOK, it looks to be one in the door and one out. Celtic are expected to move for another left-back this summer to provide competition and cover for Tierney, ensuring depth remains in a position that has already seen significant change.
The return of a player with Tierney’s pedigree sends a strong message about Celtic ambitions under Rodgers. As the squad begins to take shape for the new season, the early business shows Celtic are not standing still.
