Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has stepped down from his position after major shareholder Dermot Desmond accused him of divisive and misleading conduct. The Scottish champions trail Hearts by eight points following a loss at Tynecastle on Sunday. Former manager Martin O'Neill will return as interim boss at the age of 73, supported by ex-Celtic player Shaun Maloney.
Desmond disputed Rodgers' claim that no contract extension was offered and said the manager had final approval over all transfers. The Irish businessman stated that Rodgers received backing for recruitment and questioned his public criticism of transfer activity. Rodgers completed two stints at Celtic Park and won four league titles between 2017 and 2024.
The club announced the resignation late on Monday, following a difficult European campaign and a contentious transfer window. Desmond said Rodgers created a hostile environment through his comments about operations and blamed him for tensions with club officials. O'Neill last managed Celtic two decades ago before his departure in 2005.
Desmond disputed Rodgers' claim that no contract extension was offered and said the manager had final approval over all transfers. The Irish businessman stated that Rodgers received backing for recruitment and questioned his public criticism of transfer activity. Rodgers completed two stints at Celtic Park and won four league titles between 2017 and 2024.
The club announced the resignation late on Monday, following a difficult European campaign and a contentious transfer window. Desmond said Rodgers created a hostile environment through his comments about operations and blamed him for tensions with club officials. O'Neill last managed Celtic two decades ago before his departure in 2005.
