Celtic forward Kelechi Iheanacho faces a period of uncertainty at Parkhead after Brendan Rodgers, the manager who reunited with him earlier this season, resigned following Sunday’s 3–1 Premiership defeat to Hearts.
Rodgers’ departure ends his second spell in charge of the Glasgow club, with the Hoops sitting eight points behind league leaders Hearts.
Former boss Martin O’Neill and ex-player Shaun Maloney have been placed in temporary charge while the club begins the search for a permanent successor.
Iheanacho joined Celtic from Sevilla FC on 2 September 2025, signing a one-year deal with an option for a further season. The move reunited him with Rodgers, under whom he played at Leicester City.
The Nigerian international made an instant impact on his debut against Kilmarnock, scoring a stoppage-time penalty to seal a 2–1 victory.
Since then, the 29-year-old has made four league appearances, scoring two goals for the Scottish champions. He has 1 goal in 4 Europa league matches
Iheanacho is currently out with a hamstring injury.Photo Credit: Celtic/X
A statement from Celtic on Monday evening read: “Celtic Football Club can confirm that football manager Brendan Rodgers has today tendered his resignation. It has been accepted by the club and Brendan will leave his role with immediate effect.
“The club appreciates Brendan’s contribution to Celtic during his two very successful periods at the club.
Rodgers and Iheanacho share a moment together. Photo Credit: Getty Images
“Brendan leaves Celtic with our thanks for the role he has played during a period of continued success for the club and we wish him further success in the future.
“We are pleased that during this interim period former Celtic manager, Martin O’Neill and former Celtic player, Shaun Maloney have agreed to take charge of Celtic first-team matters.”
Celtic majority shareholder Dermot Desmond released a strongly worded statement accusing Rodgers of fostering a “toxic atmosphere” within the club, claiming his recent conduct was “divisive and self-serving”.
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Rodgers’ resignation follows growing fan unrest and poor league form.
His departure leaves Celtic with another managerial rebuild on their hands, while Iheanacho one of his notable late-summer signings now awaits clarity on his role under the incoming manager.
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Celtic visit Falkirk next, with O’Neill and Maloney set to oversee the team on an interim basis.
