Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers sat down for an exclusive interview with Celtic TV to discuss the team’s remarkable start to the season, as well as the challenges that lie ahead.
Having lost just one match so far the Hoops have been in sensational form. Rodgers shared his delight over how the team has performed, reflecting on their strong early run and the key elements behind it. He also provided insight into how the squad is managing the hectic fixture schedule, with seven matches looming in just 23 days.
One of the crucial factors in the team’s success, Rodgers explained, was the preparation that took place during the preseason in the United States. The manager touched on how that period helped solidify team unity and allowed time to focus on tactical foundations. While winning is always the objective, Rodgers emphasised the importance of continuous player development, highlighting his desire to improve individual performance throughout the campaign.
With a demanding fixture list ahead, the international break provided a much-needed breather for the squad. Rodgers talked about how the break has been managed and the steps taken to ensure the players return fresh and ready for the busy schedule ahead. He also addressed the challenges posed by fixture congestion, with the modern game placing ever-increasing demands on players.
Looking ahead to the upcoming match against Aberdeen, Rodgers gave credit to the Dons’ impressive form under new manager Jimmy Tolianian. He discussed the team’s tactical approach and how he expects them to be a formidable opponent when they visit Celtic Park this weekend.
CELTIC RODGERS INTERVIEW FULL TRANSCRIBED
Interviewer: “Only one defeat so far this season, that coming against last year’s Champions League finalists. How pleased are you with how the team has performed?”
Brendan Rodgers: “Yeah, I’ve been absolutely delighted. As you said, we’ve played 11 games, won 10, and lost just once to a really strong opponent. The unity, the spirit, and the quality within the team have been fantastic. Now, we’re looking to carry that momentum into the next set of games. We’ve got seven matches in the next 23 days, which will be a busy period, but we’re determined to keep things going.”
Interviewer: “Do you feel that the strong start to the season is a testament to the excellent preseason the team had in the United States? How important was that in setting the tone for the campaign?”
Brendan Rodgers: “Preseason is a crucial time for several reasons. It gives us the opportunity to bond as a team and as a staff over a long period. It also allows us to really focus on the tactical elements of the game, laying the foundation for the season. But beyond that, development never stops, no matter how well you’re doing. Winning is vital, but we’re here to improve players individually, and that’s always a key theme in our work.”
Interviewer: “You’ve just come through an intense stretch of games. How are the players handling the international break?”
Brendan Rodgers: “The players who stayed back had a chance to recover. We played in Sligo midweek, which was a great exercise for us. After that, some of the players got a bit of breathing space to rest and recharge for the next batch of games. They’ve been back in training since Monday, and we’re preparing well for the weekend. Recovery is as important as training hard, and while the international players are away, we’ll get them back as soon as possible, recover them, and be ready to go again for the busy schedule ahead.”
Interviewer: “You mentioned seven games in 23 days. Do you feel the fixture congestion caused by frequent international breaks is an issue?”
Brendan Rodgers: “Yes, there’s definitely more football crammed into shorter timeframes. Looking forward, I think football is heading towards becoming a 12-month sport. Players may not only get rest in the summer, but at different points throughout the year. There are more games and higher demands on players. They love playing, but we want to maintain quality in every match. We’ll continue to prepare the players as best we can, motivating and inspiring them to perform well, and so far, they’ve done a fantastic job.”
Interviewer: “Aberdeen come to Celtic Park this weekend on a great run of form, with 13 wins in all competitions. What are your thoughts on their form, and what do you expect from them?”
Brendan Rodgers: “Jimmy (Tolianian) has done a fantastic job with them. To have 13 wins from 13 games shows the level they’re playing at. They’ll come into this game confident, playing well and getting results, and their supporters will be thrilled with their start to the season. We respect every opponent, and we’ll prepare for them like we do for any other game. I’ve been impressed with Aberdeen. I’ve watched them during the international break, studied how they defend and attack, and we’ll have a plan in place for Saturday.”
Interviewer: “What do you think about Jimmy’s impact on Scottish football, given his past success in Sweden?”
Brendan Rodgers: “I’ve not met Jimmy before, but his work speaks for itself. His team is well-organized, defending in a 4-4-2, and they work incredibly hard off the ball. When they have possession, they look to build from the back and progress through the thirds. They have a good mix of talented and experienced players. Aberdeen is a club that’s always expected to be near the top. During my first spell here, they were always in finals and challenging at the top of the league. Jimmy’s come in, looks calm on the touchline, and the players have responded well.”
Interviewer: “Both teams come into the game unbeaten. How important will the crowd’s energy be for Saturday’s game?”
Brendan Rodgers: “It’s always vital. Celtic Park’s atmosphere is a big part of what drives us. If the fans want something, they play a huge role in helping us achieve it. Saturday will be a fantastic occasion, not just for us, but for Scottish football as a whole, and it marks the start of an exciting stretch of games for us.”
You can watch the full interview by subscribing to Celtic TV.
