Former Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has discussed his choice not to tamper with Al Qadsiah’s system after taking charge. The Irishman completed a lucrative move to the Saudi Pro League last month and has already made an immediate impact, highlighted by a victory over Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr.
In a social media clip during a conversation with Al Qadsiah’s media team, Rodgers acknowledged that he lacked the personnel to deploy his favoured 4-3-3, which has led him to stick with the side’s established 3-5-2 setup.
Rodgers acknowledged the risks involved in altering the system midway through a season, particularly when the squad has not had time to adjust or be strengthened with players suited to that approach. This reflects poorly on the Celtic hierarchy who approved the appointment of Wilfried Nancy.
The arrival from Columbus Crew opted, after just one training session, to switch to a 3-4-3 formation for a must-win encounter against Hearts. The manager persisted with that setup and Celtic paid the price, losing the strong run of form they had built under Martin O’Neill.
The Frenchman succeeded Rodgers as permanent boss but survived only 33 days before being dismissed and replaced by interim manager O’Neill.
The iconic Celtic manager returned after Rodgers and stabilised the side, winning seven of his eight matches in charge. It was evident that Rodgers had been hampered by a lack of backing in the transfer market, which ultimately contributed to his decision to depart the club.
That entire episode has placed mounting pressure on Michael Nicholson, who is now facing increased calls to step down following the appointments of both Nancy and Paul Tisdale.
Rodgers’ track record needs little defence, and the chaotic handling of the Nancy appointment has underlined several of the concerns he previously raised. Rodgers remained silent despite a shocking personal attack published on the club’s official website by major shareholder Dermot Desmond.