Former Celtic and Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers is reportedly on the verge of a surprising return to the dugout, with a move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Qadsiah in advanced negotiations. According to reports, the Northern Irishman is set to travel to the Middle East as work continues to finalize a deal that would see him succeed the departed Michel Gonzalez. If appointed, Rodgers would join the growing contingent of high-profile figures in Saudi football.
Former Celtic and Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers is reportedly on the verge of a surprising return to the dugout, with a move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Qadsiah in advanced negotiations. According to reports, the Northern Irishman is set to travel to the Middle East as work continues to finalize a deal that would see him succeed the departed Michel Gonzalez. If appointed, Rodgers would join the growing contingent of high-profile figures in Saudi football.
The 52-year-old has been out of management since his abrupt departure from Celtic in October, a move that sparked a public dispute with the club's hierarchy. Majority shareholder Dermot Desmond refuted Rodgers' claims of lacking boardroom support and insufficient transfer backing, stating that every player transaction during his tenure was done with the manager's "full knowledge, approval and endorsement." Despite the contentious exit, Rodgers leaves Celtic with the highest win ratio (75.5%) in the club's history, having secured four Scottish Premiership titles and two domestic trebles across two spells.
Al-Qadsiah, who currently sit fifth in the Saudi Pro League table, have identified Rodgers as their top target to lead their ambitious project. The club's CEO, James Bisgrove, and sporting director, Carlos Anton, are overseeing the recruitment, and reports indicate that Rodgers' "style of play and philosophy ultimately made him the preferred candidate." His proven track record of delivering trophies, including an FA Cup with Leicester City, further bolstered his appeal.
The club aims to have a new manager in place by the time the January transfer window opens to ensure a smooth transition. Rodgers, who began his coaching career as Chelsea's reserve manager under Jose Mourinho, appears ready to embrace a new challenge outside the United Kingdom. The opportunity at Al-Qadsiah represents a significant next step, placing him in a league featuring global stars and a club with clear aspirations to climb the standings, currently ten points behind the league-leading Al-Nassr.
