Celtic Leak Returns: Rodgers Faces Déjà Vu Before Crucial Ibrox Trip

A leaked Celtic line-up for today’s derby at Ibrox is doing the rounds online, with claims Michel-Ange Balikwisha and Marcelo Saracchi will both start in what would be their debuts.

The team being shared suggests Brendan Rodgers has made a few big calls. Saracchi, usually a left-back, is expected to fill in on the right ahead of Anthony Ralston.

Balikwisha, signed for his pace and directness, is tipped to take a place in the front three.

The leaked XI has Kasper Schmeichel in goal, with a back four of Saracchi, Cameron Carter-Vickers, Liam Scales and Kieran Tierney. Using Saracchi on the right would be a surprise, but might be a response to recent struggles in that area.

In midfield, Arne Engels is named alongside Reo Hatate and Callum McGregor. Up front, Balikwisha is set to start on the left, Daizen Maeda through the middle, and Benjamin Nygren on the right, ahead of James Forrest.

Adam Idah is not included, with his move to Swansea still on hold. Celtic are still trying to secure a replacement before letting the Irish striker leave.

Brendan Rodgers won’t be pleased about the leak. Last season, similar incidents happened before big games, including a League Cup semi-final and another derby.

On both occasions, Rodgers hit out at whoever was sharing the team early, saying it helped the opposition and wasn’t the act of a real Celtic supporter. He left it to the club to deal with, but made it clear he wanted it stopped.

If the leaked line-up is right, it shows Rodgers is trusting new faces and making bold choices for a massive match away at Ibrox.