Brendan Rodgers, Celtic make long-term commitment to each other
When Celtic landed Brendan Rodgers as Ronny Diella’s replacement this past offseason, most believed it was a temporary move for the big-named manager. A stop-gap between jobs in the English Premier League.
However, the boyhood Celtic fan has sung a different tune during his first year at Paradise. Rodgers was often quoted about his enjoyment of the project going on at Celtic and coaching at this particular club.
On Monday, Rodgers put his pen to paper on what he has been speaking about all season long. The club inked a new four-year agreement wit Rodgers, one that ups his pay and keeps Celtic from having to deal with massive speculation over his future at the club this offseason.
“I’ve got to be honest, I find it hard to find the words to express my feelings,” Rodgers stated.
“So for me, I couldn’t be happier. I’m in the best place I could possibly be. I’ll be eternally thankful for the board showing that trust in me.”
Let’s not forget that Rodgers’ contract was a rolling 12-month deal that paid him a then-record £2.25 million.
Gone is the uncertainty that type of contract breeds, replaced with a clear commitment from the club and manager to a more long-term look for Celtic’s future. Some may question the timing, but there was no doubt in Rodgers’ mind about getting this deal done as quickly as possible.
“It just felt right,” said Rodgers in a press conference to announce his new deal. “Myself, Peter (Lawwell) and the board have been talking for a little while, and I felt (it) just the right thing to do.”
He went on to try to explain just how happy he was with this bit of news.
“Now, going forward over the course of the next four years, a commitment from us all to look to grow, develop. It is my responsibility to grow the football development.”
Chief Executive Peter Lawwell noted that Rodgers deserved the raise and to end speculation given the immediately positive impact his managerial reign has had on the club.
"“Brendan has made a huge impact at Celtic already. He’s an outstanding manager and we believe he is one of the best coaches in Europe, if not world football, and we’re delighted that he has committed his future to Celtic.”"
No doubt speculation will still come surrounding Rodgers and the EPL, because that’s what the British media does best.
But, signing this new deal before his first full season is over certainly points to Rodgers wanting to be at Celtic Park for as long as he wants. For him, it isn’t all about the big-name English clubs or anything like that. It is about being personally and professionally happy.
That is what Celtic bring to the table, and that will be hard to beat, even if the money is outrageous down South.
“It’s about happiness, and I’m very happy in my professional life,” said Rodgers. “Everyone enjoys their work and everyone is hungry to improve.”
Given what Celtic have already accomplished the goal of improvement certainly seems to be a lofty one ahead.