Despite rumors linking Kyogo Furuhashi to Atlanta United, Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers maintains that the Japanese striker is content at the club and remains a key part of their plans. Rodgers addresses the speculation surrounding Furuhashi's future and outlines his approach to managing players who may seek new opportunities.
Brendan Rodgers has dispelled rumors suggesting Kyogo Furuhashi desires a transfer away from Celtic despite links to Major League Soccer club Atlanta United. The speculation arose during the January transfer window, even after MLS apologized for incorrectly reporting that Atlanta had purchased the Japanese striker. Furuhashi, who scored twice in Celtic's 4-1 victory over Ross County, reached a remarkable 85 goals for the club.
Some observers noted a perceived lack of enthusiasm during his goal celebrations, sparking further conjecture. At 29 and with three and a half seasons in Glasgow, the possibility of Furuhashi seeking new opportunities is not unfounded. Rodgers, however, remains resolute in his stance, emphasizing his willingness to facilitate transfers for players who no longer wish to remain at Celtic. 'I think the biggest thing is if a player doesn't want to be here, then go,' the Northern Irishman stated. 'And then it's at that point, then the club has to get the best possible deal. So I don't ever see the point of keeping someone who doesn't want to be here.' Rodgers underscored the club's preparedness for all eventualities, including transfers, insisting that players should prioritize their happiness and commitment. While acknowledging the constant speculation surrounding Furuhashi, Rodgers expressed confidence in his player's continued dedication. 'He's happy, he's working well, he's scoring goals and enjoying his football,' Rodgers asserted.Furuhashi's recent adaptation to a wider attacking role, with Adam Idah taking the central striker position, has added another layer to the narrative. With the potential return of Nicolas Kuhn, Luis Palma, and Daizen Maeda for Tuesday's William Hill Premiership match against Dundee, competition for starting positions is likely to intensify. Idah, who has endured an 11-match goal drought, may face the prospect of being rested, but Rodgers remains pleased with his overall contribution. 'I was really pleased with his contribution,' Rodgers stated. 'I don't need my striker to score 40 goals a season, I really don't. If you look at any of my teams, the goals are always spread out. What I need is the players to be intense, to be aggressive.' Rodgers highlighted Idah's vital role in facilitating attacks and creating space for other players, expressing confidence that a goal will soon come.Meanwhile, Rodgers is evaluating the future of Johnny Kenny, who made his Celtic debut after a successful loan spell with Shamrock Rovers, scoring 25 goals. The 21-year-old impressed with his strength, enthusiasm, and work ethic during his brief appearance against Ross County. Rodgers will decide whether to retain Kenny within the squad for further development or send him out on loan for more playing experience. 'We'll continue to monitor him and then it's the next decision. Is he going to stay and be a part, or does he still need more game-time on loan?' Rodgers remarked. 'But at this moment, I've been really pleased. He showed a wonderful enthusiasm for football and to work and he's done really well. And I can see, 25 yards in, he's a really, really good finisher.' The uncertainty surrounding Luis Palma's future also persists, with reports suggesting Rayo Vallecano has proposed a loan deal with an option to buy. Rodgers, however, remains focused on managing the current squad and ensuring its readiness for the challenges ahead. 'Our first job is to look after our own squad, make sure that's ready, and by the end of this month, set up for the challenges for the rest of the season,' Rodgers stated. 'And if that allows some players to go out, then that can and may still happen.
CELTIC KYOGO FURUHASHI BRENDAN RODGERS TRANSFER RUMORS ATLANTA UNITED SCOTTISH PREMIERSHIP
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