Celtic Defender’s Career in Jeopardy After Rodgers’ Verdict
Celtic’s Alexandro Bernabei may have played his last game for the Hoops, according to recent reports. The 24-year-old left-back, signed for £3.75m in 2022, has struggled to impress manager Brendan Rodgers and is currently on loan at Brazilian side Internacional.
Bernabei’s Struggles
Bernabei’s Celtic career has been marked by inconsistency and controversy. In 28 appearances, he scored just once and failed to establish himself as a regular starter. His unprofessional behavior, including being late to team meetings, earned him criticism from former Celtic striker Chris Sutton, who labeled him “a bit of an idiot.”
Rodgers’ Skepticism
Rodgers’ skepticism about reintegrating Bernabei into the squad stems from his poor form and disciplinary issues. With Greg Taylor firmly established as first-choice left-back, Bernabei’s chances of revival seem slim. Rodgers’ decision to loan him out to Internacional may be a precursor to a permanent transfer.
Celtic’s Dominant League Cup Semi-Final Performance
Meanwhile, Celtic cruised into the Scottish League Cup final with a resounding 6-0 victory over Aberdeen. Goals from Cameron Carter-Vickers, Kyogo Furuhashi, Daizen Maeda (hat-trick), and Nicolas Kuhn sealed the win. This dominant display demonstrates Celtic’s strength and depth, making Bernabei’s return even more unlikely.
Maeda’s Stellar Performance
Daizen Maeda’s hat-trick highlighted his growing importance to Celtic. The Japanese winger’s pace, skill, and finishing ability make him a valuable asset. His goalscoring form will be crucial in Celtic’s pursuit of silverware.
Aberdeen’s Title Hopes
Aberdeen’s heavy defeat may have significant implications for their Scottish Premiership title challenge. The Dons’ mental resilience will be tested as they strive to keep pace with Celtic. Rodgers’ men, meanwhile, will look to maintain their momentum.
Transfer Implications
Celtic’s decision to offload Bernabei permanently could recoup most of the £3.75m spent on him. This would allow Rodgers to reinvest in a more reliable left-back, potentially someone with better defensive skills and consistency.
Fan Reaction
Celtic supporters have mixed opinions on Bernabei’s departure. Some feel his unprofessional behavior warranted his exit, while others believe he deserved more chances. The consensus, however, is that Celtic must strengthen their left-back position to maintain their domestic dominance.
Conclusion
Alexandro Bernabei’s Celtic career appears all but over. Brendan Rodgers’ skepticism and Bernabei’s poor form have sealed his fate. Celtic will likely seek a more reliable left-back, while Bernabei will aim to revive his career elsewhere. The Hoops’ dominant League Cup semi-final performance demonstrates their strength, but also highlights the need for quality reinforcements.
Predicted Celtic Starting XI
With Bernabei unlikely to return, Celtic’s starting lineup may feature:
- Joe Hart (GK)
- Josip Juranovic (RB)
- Cameron Carter-Vickers (CB)
- Carl Starfelt (CB)
- Greg Taylor (LB)
- Reo Hatate (CM)
- Matt O’Riley (CM)
- Daizen Maeda (RW)
- Kyogo Furuhashi (ST)
- Jota (LW)
Transfer Rumors
Celtic are linked with several left-backs, including:
- Ryan Sessegnon (Tottenham Hotspur)
- Borna Barisic (Rangers)
- Rico Henry (Brentford)
Only time will tell if Celtic secure their top target, but one thing is certain – Alexandro Bernabei’s Hoops career is all but over.
Join the Discussion
Share your thoughts on Bernabei’s departure and Celtic’s left-back options in the comments below.