Brendan Rodgers has given his take on reports linking Kevin Muscat with the Rangers job, as the Ibrox club looks to replace the recently sacked Russell Martin.
Rodgers was calm and respectful when asked about the possible arrival of Muscat, a man often compared to Ange Postecoglou because of their shared coaching roots.
Rodgers admitted he doesn’t know Muscat personally but recognised the quality of his work in Asia, where the former Rangers defender has carved out a strong reputation as a modern, attack-minded coach. With Rangers expected to appoint their new boss soon, Rodgers made it clear that whoever comes in, Celtic will be ready for the challenge.
Muscat’s potential move adds another layer to the ongoing rivalry narrative. Having followed in Postecoglou’s footsteps at both Melbourne Victory and Yokohama F. Marinos, the Australian’s connection to Celtic’s former manager naturally draws comparisons. But Rodgers, as ever, stayed focused on his own team and their goals for the season.
He said: (RecordSport), “I think every team that changes manager, you always accept and take on the challenge of new ideas and that freshness that they may bring.
“I don’t know Kevin that well, but I came across him a few times when I was at Liverpool. He came in to training when I was manager at Liverpool and spent some time with him there.
“And then of course, when we travelled then over to Australia with Liverpool and met him in Ange when I was there.
“I don’t know him that well, but he’s done a really good job in the teams that he’s been at in Asia.
“If he’s to be the new manager coming in, then it’s another new challenge. And as I said, for us, we’ll be ready for it.”
Rodgers’ composed response was typical of his approach, respectful, but quietly confident. He’s seen plenty of managerial changes across the city before and knows how quickly narratives shift once the football starts again.
Soccer Football – Scottish Premiership – Rangers v Celtic – Ibrox, Glasgow, Scotland, Britain – August 31, 2025 Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers arrives at the stadium before the match REUTERS/Russell Cheyne
For all the talk about Muscat’s Postecoglou-style philosophy, Rodgers will see it as another test, not a threat.
Celtic’s focus remains on maintaining standards, setting the pace, and proving once more that the title goes through Parkhead, no matter who’s in the opposite dugout.
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