Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has recently weighed in on the growing speculation surrounding the potential reunion between the club and Kieran Tierney, the Scottish left-back currently at Arsenal. Tierney, a product of Celtic’s youth academy, is widely expected to leave the Gunners in 2025, with his future uncertain after Arsenal chose not to trigger a 12-month extension on his current contract. As a result, he is set to depart on a free transfer next summer unless a move can be arranged as early as the January transfer window.
Celtic, where Tierney rose to prominence and became a fan favorite, is considered one of the frontrunners to secure his signature, but they are likely to face stiff competition from several Premier League sides. In response to the speculation, Rodgers has expressed his admiration for the player but remained tight-lipped regarding any potential move, emphasizing that Celtic has work to do and will not publicly comment on players under contract at other clubs.
This situation has sparked excitement among Celtic supporters, who would love to see their former star return to Glasgow. However, given the player’s high-profile status, it’s expected that any move for Tierney will involve negotiations with Arsenal, especially if Celtic aim to bring him back in January. With that in mind, Rodgers faces an intriguing challenge as he seeks to strengthen his squad and secure Tierney’s return, potentially without the financial competition from other European clubs.
Kieran Tierney’s Situation at Arsenal
Kieran Tierney’s time at Arsenal has been an eventful one. After joining the Gunners from Celtic in 2019 for a reported fee of £25 million, Tierney quickly established himself as one of the most reliable and talented left-backs in the Premier League. His work ethic, leadership, and ability to contribute both defensively and offensively made him a favorite among Arsenal fans. However, his position at the club has become increasingly precarious over the past few seasons.
Under manager Mikel Arteta, Tierney initially featured prominently in the first team but found his playing time reduced as Arteta increasingly favored the more defensively-minded Oleksandr Zinchenko in the left-back role. This tactical shift, combined with injuries and competition for spots, has led to Tierney’s limited involvement in the first team in recent times.
Given his status as a talented international player for Scotland and his potential to contribute to a top-tier team, it’s not surprising that Tierney is considering a move away from Arsenal. The Gunners have reportedly decided not to exercise the 12-month extension clause in Tierney’s contract, which means that he will be available on a free transfer in the summer of 2025, unless an agreement is reached in January.
Arsenal’s decision to allow Tierney to depart on a free transfer, rather than seeking a transfer fee, may be seen as a sign that Arteta is willing to move on from the left-back. The move also signals that the Gunners are preparing for their long-term future, possibly with a different tactical setup or through the development of younger players in that position. However, for Tierney, this leaves the door open for potential suitors, with Celtic considered a strong contender to bring him back to Glasgow.
Brendan Rodgers’ View on Kieran Tierney’s Return to Celtic
Brendan Rodgers, who managed Kieran Tierney during his time at Celtic and oversaw his development into one of Scotland’s brightest young talents, was recently asked about the possibility of reuniting with the left-back at Celtic. Rodgers, who gave Tierney 127 appearances across all competitions during his first stint at the club, praised the 27-year-old’s attributes and leadership qualities but declined to engage in any direct discussions about a potential move.
“Kieran is someone I know really well, but there will be lots of players linked with coming to Celtic,” Rodgers said. “We will never speak about a player, especially a young player who is at another club. But we’ve got work to do, we know that. We want to improve the squad further in a number of key areas.”
Rodgers’ comments reflect his pragmatic approach, which is typical of his managerial style. He emphasized that while Tierney is a player he knows well and has a deep respect for, he was not going to be drawn into speculation about potential transfers at this early stage. “But until that happens, the players we’ve got here have been working so well, and we’ll just continue to work with them and see what happens in January.”
While Rodgers’ response was measured and professional, it is clear that Celtic is keeping an eye on the situation with Tierney, especially as they look to improve their squad during the upcoming transfer window. However, Rodgers also made it clear that any possible transfer would be handled discreetly and in the best interests of the club.
Celtic’s Advantage Over Premier League Clubs
As Tierney’s contract with Arsenal nears its expiration, Celtic will likely be one of the primary clubs vying for his signature. However, they are not the only club interested in the left-back’s services. Several Premier League sides are expected to monitor Tierney’s situation, with the player still widely regarded as one of the best left-backs in the Premier League when fit and in form.
Celtic’s potential advantage over these Premier League suitors lies in the fact that they can open negotiations directly with Tierney as early as January 2025, with a view to securing a free transfer deal in the summer. This could be particularly appealing to Tierney, as he would be able to return to the club where he made his name and where he enjoys a deep connection with the fans.
Additionally, Celtic could offer the 27-year-old the opportunity to play regularly, something that might not be guaranteed at some of the Premier League clubs that are interested in him. Although Tierney’s time at Arsenal has been hampered by injuries and a lack of consistent playing time, returning to Celtic could offer him a fresh start in a familiar environment, one where he has thrived before.
However, should Celtic choose to pursue a move for Tierney in January, they would have to negotiate directly with Arsenal, and this could present complications. While Tierney may be available for free in the summer, Arsenal could still demand a transfer fee if a deal is struck during the winter window. The Gunners may be keen to recoup some of the investment they made in the player back in 2019, and they could be unwilling to let him leave for nothing before the end of the season.
The Future of Kieran Tierney and Celtic’s Transfer Plans
While Rodgers has not openly discussed a potential move for Tierney, it’s clear that the player’s future will be a topic of interest for Celtic as the club looks to bolster their squad in 2025. Celtic is currently in a strong position domestically and continues to be one of the top clubs in Scottish football. However, they will need to make smart moves in the transfer market if they are to maintain their dominance in the Scottish Premiership and compete in European competitions.
Rodgers has made no secret of his desire to strengthen key areas of his squad, and bringing back Tierney could be a masterstroke if the player returns to his best form. His experience in European competitions, as well as his ability to provide both defensive solidity and attacking thrust from the left flank, would be a valuable asset for Celtic moving forward.
For Tierney, a move back to Celtic could offer him the chance to rediscover his best form, regain confidence, and build a future with a club that has been integral to his career. The Celtic faithful would undoubtedly welcome his return with open arms, given the player’s crucial role in their successes during his time at the club.
Brendan Rodgers has declined to comment on the potential reunion with Kieran Tierney, but it is clear that Celtic is closely monitoring the situation. With Arsenal’s decision not to extend Tierney’s contract, the Scotland international will likely be available for a free transfer in the summer of 2025. Although there will be competition from Premier League clubs, Celtic could have an advantage in securing the player’s services, given Tierney’s strong ties to the club.
Rodgers’ professional response reflects his focus on improving the squad as a whole, and while a potential move for Tierney remains uncertain, Celtic will be ready to act if the opportunity arises. As the January transfer window approaches, the future of Kieran Tierney will be a story to watch closely, with the potential for a return to Celtic adding another intriguing chapter to his career.
