Brendan Rodgers tools up for post Celtic title charge | OneFootball

Former Hoops boss Brendan Rodgers has expressed confidence that his current side are capable of mounting a title challenge after extending their unbeaten run to 13 matches since his move from Celtic to the Middle East…

Al Shabab v Al Qadsiah: Saudi Pro League RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA – DECEMBER 31: Brendan Rodgers team Manager of Al-Qadsiah FC during the Saudi Pro League match between Al Shabab FC and Al Qadsiah at Prince Faisal bin Fahad Stadium on December 31, 2025 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Riyadh Prince Faisal bin Fahad Stadium Saudi Arabia: Photo: Abdullah Ahmed

The Irishman resigned from Celtic in October before taking charge of Al Qadsiah, where he has quickly made an impact and written his name into the record books in Saudi Arabia.

A 4-2 victory against Al Akhdoud lifted his team into fourth position in the table, putting them just five points behind leaders Al-Nassr with 11 fixtures remaining in the campaign.

Rodgers has joined an exclusive group of managers to remain unbeaten in their first 13 Saudi Pro League games, matching the achievements of several high-profile coaches who reached the same milestone.

Having previously secured four league titles during his two spells at Celtic, Rodgers believes he has the experience and squad to compete for another championship with Al Qadsiah this season.

Speaking via the official Al Qadsiah website, Rodgers said: “We have come from a long way back, but we can fight for the title for sure. There is a long way to go and there will be many twists and turns, but we have put ourselves into a good position by getting into the mix.”

“I am really delighted with the way my team is playing now. We are scoring a lot of goals and look like a real attacking threat.”

Al Qadsiah are next in action against Al Ettifaq tomorrow night as they look to put more pressure on the three teams above them.

Only a matter of months have passed since Dermot Desmond delivered a fierce criticism of Brendan Rodgers following his exit from Celtic, accusing the former manager of acting in his own interests and creating division within the club.

Brendan Rodgers, photo Al Qadsiah Saudi Club@AlQadsiahEN

Since that turbulent period, the Scottish champions have experienced a series of changes in the dugout. Martin O’Neill has steadied the team following Rodgers’ departure, Wilfried Nancy was later appointed but subsequently dismissed and O’Neill has since returned and is trying to guide the Hoops to a fifth consecutive league title despite yesterday’s 2-1 defeat to Hibs.

Conor Spence

Celtic in the Thirties by Matt Corr. Click on image to order

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