Major Headache for Brendan Rodgers and Celtic Next Season

As we approach the summer transfer window, one thing is clear: Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers must prioritise signing a new striker.

The current situation at the club, with only Kyogo and Hyeongyu Oh as recognised strikers, leaves the team in a precarious position. If either player gets injured, Celtic’s attacking options become severely limited, potentially jeopardising their season’s ambitions.

Moreover, both Kyogo and Hyeongyu are currently representing their respective countries, Japan and South Korea, in international competitions.

This commitment to their national teams is commendable, but it also poses a significant challenge for Celtic. The Asian Cup, scheduled for January 12th to February 10th, 2024 [AFC], could see both players absent from Celtic’s lineup for nearly a month. This period extends beyond Celtic’s winter break, which only runs from January 3rd to 19th [SPFL], leaving the club without their key strikers for a crucial part of the season.

Adding to this concern is the likelihood that Reo Hatate and Daizen Maeda, two other valuable players in Rodgers’ squad, will also be called up by Japan for the Asian Cup. This potential mass exodus of attacking talent during a critical period of the season could leave Celtic in a vulnerable position, struggling to compete without their key players.

The solution to this looming crisis is clear: Celtic must sign a new striker this summer. Not only would this provide much-needed depth to the squad, but it would also offer Rodgers more tactical flexibility. A new striker could provide different qualities and skills, offering a fresh dimension to Celtic’s attack. Furthermore, it would alleviate the pressure on Kyogo and Hyeongyu, allowing them to represent their countries without leaving Celtic in a precarious position.

The summer transfer window is a crucial period for any football club, and for Celtic, the need to strengthen their attacking options is evident. Rodgers must act decisively to ensure that Celtic is not left in a vulnerable position come January. The signing of a new striker is not just a desirable move; it’s a necessity.