Brendan Rodgers returned to Celtic in 2023, taking over from Ange Postecoglou, who left to manage Tottenham Hotspur. This marked the Northern Irishman’s second spell in charge of the club after his successful first stint from 2016 to 2019, during which he secured **six domestic trophies**, including **two domestic trebles**. His previous success had made him a popular figure among the Celtic fanbase, and his return was met with anticipation.
However, Rodgers faced some challenges in the early stages of his second tenure. The team experienced a **shock exit in the Scottish League Cup**, losing to Kilmarnock in his first game back in the competition. Additionally, Celtic struggled in the **Champions League**, finishing **bottom of their group**, highlighting difficulties on the European stage. Despite these setbacks, Rodgers has been working to rebuild momentum in the domestic league, where the team remains strong contenders for the Premiership title.
But the Hoops’ dominant second half of the season saw them win the SFA Cup and the Scottish Premiership, ensuring that Celtic added more trophies to their collection.
After securing two domestic trophies last season, including the Scottish Premiership title, **Celtic’s board fully backed Brendan Rodgers** in the summer transfer window. They sought to enhance the squad for further domestic dominance and better performance in European competitions.
The club made several notable signings across various positions, such as:
– **Kasper Schmeichel**, the veteran goalkeeper, who replaced Joe Hart as the new number one.
– **Viljami Sinisalo**, brought in to strengthen the goalkeeping department further.
– **Arne Engels**, an attacking midfielder with promise, adding creativity to the midfield.
– **Luke McCowan**, an exciting Scottish talent, bolstering the midfield ranks.
– **Paulo Bernardo**, a young Portuguese midfielder, acquired permanently after a loan spell from Benfica.
– **Adam Idah**, returning to Parkhead, adding depth and goalscoring potential up front.
– **Alex Valle**, a talented defender whose skill was evident in his attacking contributions, including a notable assist.
– **Auston Trusty**, a defender filling in for injured Cameron Carter-Vickers, has impressed since his deadline-day arrival.
These signings reflect Rodgers’ ambition to not only maintain Celtic’s domestic dominance but also to compete more effectively in Europe, especially after early setbacks in his return.
Given the rumored price spent for the young player, Engels, a center midfielder for Augsburg, was a particularly intriguing addition to their roster. Celtic’s purchase price for Arne Engels The Belgium international, who plays for the Bundesliga, was reportedly signed by the Hoops for an outrageous £11 million, a club record for Celtic.
Arne Engels, the 21-year-old midfielder, arrived at Celtic following an impressive season with Augsburg in the Bundesliga. Despite his young age, Engels managed to tally **three goals and two assists** in 32 appearances (including 14 starts) during the 2023/24 campaign. When asked about the pressure that comes with his transfer fee, Engels downplayed its significance, stating that his focus is on enjoying his football rather than being weighed down by the financial aspect of his move to Celtic.
Engels’ mature outlook, coupled with his ability to contribute both defensively and offensively, makes him a promising addition to Brendan Rodgers’ squad. The Belgian midfielder’s versatility and creativity will be key as he settles into his new environment in Glasgow.
Arne Engels has quickly adapted to life at Celtic, despite his lack of prior experience in Scottish football. The 21-year-old Belgian has already made a significant impact, contributing two goals and three assists in his first seven appearances across all competitions. Impressively, these contributions have come in just his last six games, showing that he is finding his rhythm under Brendan Rodgers. While the record transfer fee of **£11 million** may carry pressure, Engels’ strong start has offered plenty of optimism for his future at the club. If his form continues, Celtic could see his market value rise even further.
Rodgers and the club will be hopeful that Engels can maintain this trajectory and continue to influence games, both in the Scottish Premiership and European competitions.
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