How Brendan Rodgers could transform Celtic line up next season with Nygren and Balikwisha IN and Kuhn OUT

Potential Celtic Starting XI:

While Celtic have set the standard in Scotland in recent years, manager Brendan Rodgers acknowledges he will be keeping a close eye on rivals Rangers, who are embarking on a new era under American ownership, with Russell Martin at the helm and facing a significant squad rebuild.

With this transition across the city in mind, we project Celtic’s potential starting lineup for next season:

1. Goalkeeper: Kasper Schmeichel
   • Despite Ross Doohan returning to replace Scott Bain, the 38-year-old Schmeichel, entering the final year of his contract, remains the undisputed number one after playing 49 games last season. He will aim to move past his costly Scottish Cup final error against Aberdeen. While he has expressed a desire to play in Denmark before retiring, his experience (100+ international caps) is vital for Celtic. Doohan and Viljami Sinisalo provide backup.
2. Right-Back: Alistair Johnston
   • The Canadian international adapted to the demands of Glasgow and became a fan favourite. The 26-year-old featured in over 50 games for club and country last season, even playing midweek for Canada (taking an elbow to the face). He offers consistency and tenacity.
3. Centre-Back: Cameron Carter-Vickers
   • A defensive mainstay since joining permanently from Spurs in 2021 (initially on loan), the 27-year-old has been instrumental in winning seven trophies, including a domestic treble. He is arguably one of Celtic’s most important players.
4. Centre-Back: Liam Scales / Auston Trusty
   • Scales: Made over 40 appearances last season and formed a solid partnership with Carter-Vickers at times. His place is under pressure from new arrivals.
   • Trusty: Arrived for £6m from Sheffield United last summer. The 25-year-old American has shown promise and possesses strong physical attributes but hasn’t yet fully cemented his place. If Rodgers prioritises physicality and aerial ability, Trusty could get the nod. He will be desperate to move past his penalty miss in the Scottish Cup final.
5. Left-Back: Kieran Tierney
   • Rejoining on a free transfer from Arsenal (six years after a £25m departure) could be Celtic’s best summer business. Rodgers hails him as a “massive addition” and an upgrade, especially with Greg Taylor likely departing (linked with PAOK). The more experienced Tierney returns quick, strong, and tactically astute.
6. Central Midfielder: Callum McGregor (Captain)
   • The club captain and heartbeat of the team. Expect the experienced McGregor to anchor the midfield once again, providing leadership, composure, and dictating play.
7. Central Midfielder: Reo Hatate
   • When fit, Hatate is a key creative and dynamic force in Celtic’s midfield. His ability to drive forward, link play, and contribute goals makes him a likely starter.
8. Attacking Midfielder/Central Midfielder: Matt O’Riley
   • A standout performer last season, O’Riley’s creativity, goal threat, and work rate make him essential in the advanced midfield role or as part of a midfield three.
9. Right Wing: Nicolas Kühn / Benjamin Nygren?
   • Kühn: Showed flashes after his January arrival and is the current option for the right flank. Needs greater consistency.
   • Nygren (Rumour): SunSport reports Celtic are closing in on the 23-year-old Swedish attacker from Nordsjaelland. Capable as a number 10 or winger, he could challenge for this spot if signed.
10. Striker: Kyogo Furuhashi
    • Celtic’s primary goal threat. His movement, finishing, and work rate are crucial to Rodgers’ system. He will be the focal point of the attack.
11. Left Wing: Luis Palma / Daizen Maeda
    • Palma: Offers creativity, set-piece delivery, and goal threat from the left. Needs to build on his debut season.
    • Maeda: Provides relentless energy, pressing, and direct running. His pace is a constant outlet and defensive asset.

Manager’s Context: Rodgers, having secured a double and finished a staggering 17 points clear last season, doesn’t require major surgery. However, targeted reinforcements (like Tierney and potentially Nygren) are sought to strengthen the squad for deeper European progress and to counter a rejuvenated Rangers challenge.