Celtic Football Club is currently embroiled in a period of significant unrest, characterized by disappointing transfer dealings, managerial discontent, and mounting fan protests. The culmination of these issues has cast a shadow over the club’s aspirations for the 2025–26 season which could give Rangers an deep…
🔄 Adam Idah’s Departure and Iheanacho’s Arrival
In a surprising turn of events, striker Adam Idah completed a £6 million move to Swansea City on September 1, 2025. Initially, manager Brendan Rodgers had insisted that Idah would not be allowed to leave until a suitable replacement was secured. However, with the transfer window closing and no new forward signed, Idah’s departure proceeded. Rodgers later brought in Nigerian striker Kelechi Iheanacho on a one-year deal as a free agent, aiming to fill the void left by Idah’s exit.
Idah expressed that he had no initial thoughts of leaving Celtic, but the opportunity to join Swansea presented itself, and he made the decision for a fresh start. He also made a significant international impact, scoring a last-minute equalizer for Ireland against Hungary in their World Cup qualifying opener.
⚽ Hyun-Jun Yang’s Uncertain Future
South Korean winger Hyun-Jun Yang was also linked with a move away from Celtic. A deal with Birmingham City appeared imminent, but the transfer collapsed at the last minute due to Celtic’s refusal to sanction the move without securing a replacement. Instead, Birmingham opted to sign former Celtic player Patrick Roberts on loan from Sunderland.
🆕 New Signings: Marcelo Saracchi and Michel-Ange Balikwisha
Celtic bolstered their squad with the addition of left-back Marcelo Saracchi on loan and winger Michel-Ange Balikwisha on a five-year contract. Saracchi’s arrival addresses the team’s defensive needs, while Balikwisha’s signing adds depth to the attacking options.
🗣️ Managerial Frustrations and Fan Unrest
Manager Brendan Rodgers expressed deep frustration with the club’s summer transfer window, stating it left him feeling “empty.” He criticized the lack of timely investment and the failure to secure key targets, including the collapse of deals for strikers Kasper Dolberg and David Datro Fofana. Rodgers also called for the dismissal of a senior insider who allegedly accused him anonymously of trying to engineer his departure from the club.
Despite these challenges, Rodgers reaffirmed his commitment to the club and expressed a willingness to extend his contract, provided that significant strategic changes are made. He emphasized the need for improved football planning and better investment timing, especially regarding European competition ambitions.
📅 Upcoming Fixtures
Celtic are currently six points ahead of Rangers in the Scottish Premiership standings. Their next Old Firm derby is scheduled for Sunday, with live coverage available on Sky Sports from 11 am.
