During Celtic’s loss to Hearts on Saturday, manager Brendan Rodgers made a decision that left fans scratching their heads.
With Celtic trailing by two goals in the second half, the need for offensive rejuvenation was clear. However, Rodgers’ solution – substituting left-back Alexandro Bernabei for left-winger Luis Palma – was a move that many struggled to understand.
62' – #CelticFC substitution:
🔛 Bernabei
↩️ Palma🟢0️⃣-2️⃣🟤#CELHEA | #cinchPrem | #COYBIG🍀
— Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) December 16, 2023
Bernabei, a player who has not been a regular in matchday squads and has shown little to impress this season, was suddenly thrust into a situation demanding immediate impact.
This substitution raised eyebrows, not only because of Bernabei’s underwhelming season(s) but also due to the nature of the change. Replacing an attacking winger like Palma, who, despite not being at his best, is known for his ability to create chances from open play and set pieces, with a left-back seemed to defy conventional wisdom.
The decision by Rodgers appeared as a desperate throw of the dice, an attempt to see what might stick without a clear tactical underpinning. The lack of a coherent strategy in such a crucial moment of the game begs the question: what was the rationale behind this decision?
Palma’s presence on the pitch, even on an off day, carried the potential for a moment of brilliance, something Celtic sorely needed as they sought to overturn a two-goal deficit. The first half had seen Celtic concede from a corner and a free kick – moments that highlighted defensive lapses rather than a lack of attacking prowess. The need of the hour was clear: a spark in the offensive play, something Palma could potentially have provided.
Celtic’s 2-0 loss to Hearts only compounded the frustration. The match’s outcome not only raised questions about this particular tactical choice but also cast a shadow over Rodgers’ recent managerial decisions. Has he run out of ideas? Is there a broader issue with his tactical approach that needs addressing?
While every manager makes questionable decisions from time to time, it is the context and the consequences of these decisions that stand out. In this case, Rodgers’ choice seemed to lack both a clear tactical justification and an understanding of the game’s exigencies.
As Celtic reflects on this loss, the focus will undoubtedly be on how to rejuvenate a team that seems to be losing its way under Rodgers’ guidance.
