Nigeria international Kelechi Iheanacho faces a period of uncertainty at Celtic following the sudden resignation of manager Brendan Rodgers.
Rodgers, who recently brought Iheanacho to the Scottish champions on a one-year deal, stepped down after a poor run of results that left the club eight points behind in the league, SportPremi reports.
Rodgers’ Sudden Exit
Celtic Football Club confirmed on Monday night that Brendan Rodgers had tendered his resignation, which the club accepted immediately.
The Northern Irish manager’s second spell in charge ended after a 3–1 defeat to Hearts, Celtic’s third loss in five matches this season.
In a strongly-worded statement, major shareholder Dermot Desmond accused Rodgers of being ‘divisive, misleading and self-serving’, revealing that tensions between the manager and the club had reached breaking point.
Former manager Martin O’Neill and ex-Celtic player Shaun Maloney have been appointed as interim coaches while the club searches for a permanent replacement.
Impact on Kelechi Iheanacho
Rodgers’ departure comes just weeks after Iheanacho joined Celtic as a free agent, reuniting with his former Leicester City boss.
The Super Eagles striker had begun to find his form, scoring three goals and providing one assist in eight appearances before suffering a hamstring injury during Celtic’s Europa League win over Sturm Graz.
The 28-year-old forward now faces uncertainty regarding his role under the new management. Rodgers had personally convinced Iheanacho to move to Scotland, describing him as ‘a genuine talent’ and a player capable of making a big impact for the club.
Rodgers’ Faith in Iheanacho
Speaking shortly after Iheanacho’s signing in September, Rodgers said:
“Kel was a player that was brilliant for me at Leicester. I only want to take someone here who was robust and he’s a genuine talent. If I can get that out of him again, it could be a big plus for us.”
Rodgers praised the Nigerian’s attitude, athleticism, and experience, calling him ‘a great signing who would make a big contribution’ for the Scottish champions.
What’s Next for the Nigerian Star?
With Rodgers gone, Iheanacho’s future under interim coaches Martin O’Neill and Shaun Maloney remains to be seen.
The pair are expected to assess the squad as the season progresses, meaning the Super Eagles striker will need to prove himself once he returns from injury.
For now, Kelechi Iheanacho remains focused on recovery and regaining form as Celtic continue their domestic and European campaigns.
