In a stunning turn of events, Celtic FC supporters have erupted in outrage following manager Brendan Rodgers’ controversial decision to dismiss six players from the club’s first-team plans. The move, described as “ruthless” by insiders, has sparked a wave of backlash, with fans accusing Rodgers of undermining team morale and jeopardizing the club’s season.
The Dismissals That Shocked Celtic Park
The players reportedly excluded from Rodgers’ plans include several fan favorites and young talents who had been seen as the future of the club. Sources suggest the six individuals were informed during a closed-door meeting at Lennoxtown training center earlier this week, a decision that sent shockwaves through the dressing room.
Among the players allegedly affected are veteran midfielder James Forrest, academy graduate Stephen Welsh, and promising striker Rocco Vata. While the official reasons for the dismissals remain unclear, insiders claim the decision stems from a combination of poor performance, lack of fit in Rodgers’ tactical vision, and the need to trim the squad ahead of the January transfer window.
Fan Outrage and Protest
News of the dismissals has not sat well with Celtic supporters, many of whom see the move as a betrayal of the club’s core values. Fans gathered outside Celtic Park hours after the announcement, chanting slogans and waving banners criticizing Rodgers.
One particularly vocal fan group, the Green Brigade, released a fiery statement:
“Brendan Rodgers has lost touch with what it means to be Celtic. Dismissing loyal players who have given their all for the badge is not the Celtic way. We demand accountability for these decisions that hurt the team and the supporters.”
Social media platforms have been flooded with posts condemning the manager. The hashtag #RodgersOut began trending in Glasgow shortly after the news broke, with some fans even calling for his immediate resignation.
Rodgers Defends His Decision
In a press conference following the backlash, Rodgers stood by his actions, arguing that tough decisions are necessary for the club’s progress.
“As a manager, my job is to make decisions in the best interest of the team. It’s never easy, especially with players who have contributed to the club, but this is about moving forward. Celtic is bigger than any individual.”
Rodgers emphasized that the club’s long-term ambitions require a shift in strategy, including integrating new signings and adapting to a more competitive landscape in European football.
Player Reactions: Silence and Subtle Hints
While most of the dismissed players have remained silent, sources close to them suggest feelings of disappointment and betrayal. James Forrest, a Celtic stalwart with over a decade of service, reportedly told friends he felt “blindsided” by the decision, especially given his loyalty to the club during turbulent times.
Stephen Welsh, on the other hand, posted a cryptic message on Instagram: “Sometimes the hardest thing to do is stay silent. #NextChapter,” hinting at his possible departure in January.
Impact on Celtic’s Season
The timing of Rodgers’ decision has raised eyebrows, as Celtic currently sit atop the Scottish Premiership table but face stiff competition from Rangers and an upcoming Europa League knockout tie. Critics argue that sidelining key players could disrupt team chemistry and weaken the squad’s depth, especially with a packed fixture list in the coming months.
Former Celtic players have also weighed in on the matter. Club legend Chris Sutton, now a pundit, criticized Rodgers’ approach, calling it “a dangerous gamble.”
“Celtic has always been about unity and togetherness. You don’t throw players under the bus mid-season. This could backfire spectacularly,” Sutton said during a television appearance.
The Board’s Position
While fans continue to voice their discontent, Celtic’s board appears to back Rodgers—for now. A club statement praised the manager’s “clear vision for the future” and urged fans to trust the process. However, the board’s support may waver if the team’s performance dips in the wake of this controversy.
Fan Actions Escalate
The fan outrage escalated when a group of supporters symbolically “stoned” Rodgers—hurling soft projectiles and paper balls at an effigy of the manager outside the stadium during a protest. While no real harm was intended, the gesture captured the deep frustration among the fanbase.
One protestor explained the action:
“This isn’t about violence; it’s about showing Brendan Rodgers that his decisions have real consequences for the fans who live and breathe Celtic.”
What’s Next for Rodgers and Celtic?
As Celtic prepare for a crucial run of fixtures, the pressure on Brendan Rodgers is mounting. Whether the manager can navigate this storm and deliver results will likely determine his future at the club.
For now, Celtic supporters remain divided, with some calling for patience and others demanding immediate change. One thing is certain: the drama at Celtic Park is far from over, and all eyes will be on Brendan Rodgers as he attempts to steer the club through this turbulent period.
Niel Nathaniel 
Victor