Brendan Rodgers has revealed why Hayato Inamura hasn’t featured in a competitive game so far this season and has been left out of Celtic’s Champions League squad for the crucial fourth round playoff against Kairat Almaty.
Inamura joined the club earlier this summer, with the hope of progressing into the senior setup. While he has featured in bounce games during pre-season, he has yet to be named in a matchday squad under Rodgers.
Now, the Irishman has made it clear the defender is still well short of what’s required to be involved at first-team level, especially with the demands of European competition.
He said: “Very easy. He’s not quite at the level, as of yet, that I would expect. The plan for Ina was to come in, train, and see where he was at, with the possibility of going out on loan because he’s only had a year’s football.
“He came in as a centre-half, stroke left-back, but his defensive qualities aren’t at the level that would see me put him in against Lamine Yamal, if I had to. So it’s as simple as that.
“That’s why he’s not involved.
“He’s played in some really good games against Cork and Queen’s Park, but the reality is that’s the level that we play — you get 80% of the ball and you’ve got the ball. But we also need a player that can defend.
“We’re hoping that over the next couple of years, with experience and maybe a loan, that development can take place. But at this very, very moment, that’s why he’s not in the squad. It’s as simple as that.”
Inamura’s appearances against Cork and Queen’s Park gave him some exposure, but Rodgers believes those games don’t reflect the defensive test required at the top level, particularly when facing top-tier opponents like Yamal.
The message from Rodgers is clear: there’s potential in the 23-year-old, but he’s not yet ready to contribute in key fixtures. With the manager stressing the need for defensive reliability, Inamura is likely to head out on loan before the transfer window closes.
Celtic face Kairat Almaty in what could be a defining tie for their European campaign. And with squad places limited, there’s no room for passengers. Rodgers has chosen experience and readiness over long-term development for now.
