Brendan Rodgers has defended Celtic’s playing style in the aftermath of their recent heavy defeat in the Champions League. Despite a crushing 7-1 loss to Borussia Dortmund, Rodgers remains steadfast in his belief in the team’s approach.
The defeat marked the third occasion under Rodgers’ management that Celtic have suffered a seven-goal loss in the Champions League. The manager acknowledged that the match was a “tough watch,” with Dortmund’s Karim Adeyemi netting a hat-trick as his side ran riot.
Rodgers, who also experienced heavy defeats to Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain in previous seasons, emphasized that Celtic would not change their playing philosophy. He expressed that their style of play, which focuses on dominance domestically, may require adaptation in European competitions where the quality of opposition is higher.
Reflecting on the match, Rodgers admitted that Celtic’s performance fell short of their usual standards. He highlighted issues such as positioning and ball retention that need improvement. The manager noted the ruthlessness of top-level finishing and the importance of tightening up defensively against elite opponents.
Despite the setback, Rodgers pointed out that Celtic entered the game on the back of a 5-1 victory in their Champions League opener, demonstrating their capability. The team had been enjoying a run of 17 consecutive wins before facing Dortmund, further underlining their quality.
Rodgers stressed the need for Celtic to learn from their mistakes and make necessary adjustments to compete effectively at the highest level. He acknowledged the speed and power of top European teams and the importance of tactical discipline in such encounters.
As Celtic aim to bounce back from the heavy defeat, Rodgers remains resolute in his belief in the team’s ability to perform at a high level. The manager’s commitment to their playing style and his determination to address shortcomings highlight his confidence in Celtic’s potential to succeed in future challenges.