Dermot Desmond, Celtic's principal shareholder, has launched a scathing critique of Brendan Rodgers following the manager's abrupt departure from the club. Rodgers resigned with eight months remaining on his contract, amidst growing fan discontent over the team's transfer policy and recent on-field performances. The departure follows consecutive Premiership defeats, leaving Celtic eight points behind league leaders Hearts.
Desmond didn't hold back in his assessment of Rodgers' conduct, accusing him of being "misleading, divisive, and self-serving". He expressed "deep disappointment" in a statement released by the club, suggesting Rodgers' actions and communications in recent months had eroded the trust initially placed in him. Desmond stated that when Rodgers was brought back to Celtic two years prior, it was with the belief that he would usher in a new era of sustained success.
The Celtic shareholder also addressed the timeline of contract extension discussions. According to Desmond, Celtic representatives expressed interest in extending Rodgers' contract as early as June, but Rodgers allegedly did not commit. Desmond claims that Rodgers later implied in press conferences that the club hadn't offered him a contract, which Desmond firmly refuted.
Desmond also defended the club's transfer approach, an area that had been a source of tension. He asserted that Rodgers had final say over all football matters, including player signings and sales. "Every player signed and every player sold during his tenure was done so with Brendan's full knowledge, approval, and endorsement. Any insinuation otherwise is absolutely false," Desmond stated. He also noted that he directly addressed Rodgers' concerns about the transfer policy in a three-hour meeting, but Rodgers was "unable to identify a single instance where the club had obstructed or failed to support him".
The criticism comes in the wake of a turbulent period for Celtic, marked by fan frustration and tension surrounding the club's performance and management. Desmond acknowledged the "toxic atmosphere" that has developed, condemning the "unwarranted and unacceptable" abuse directed at board members and their families.
In the interim, former Celtic boss Martin O'Neill will take charge of the team, assisted by ex-Celtic player Shaun Maloney. O'Neill's return marks a significant moment for the club, two decades after his initial departure. Meanwhile, Australian Ange Postecoglou is among the favorites to take on the role of permanent manager.
