Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has shared updates on two key players, offering both bad and good news ahead of the team’s upcoming fixtures.
Starting with the bad news, midfielder Paulo Bernardo is set to be sidelined for approximately four weeks due to an ankle injury that has left him in a moon boot. Bernardo suffered the injury during the Scottish Cup fifth-round match against Raith Rovers, leaving the field visibly upset in the first half. Initially, Rodgers downplayed the severity of the issue and expressed optimism that Bernardo would be fit for the UEFA Champions League play-off first leg against Bayern Munich. However, the midfielder was absent from the squad announcement, raising concerns among fans.
Speaking at a media conference ahead of Celtic’s Scottish Premiership match against Dundee United, Rodgers confirmed the unfortunate update:
“Paulo has got his ankle in a boot, so he’ll be out for maybe four or five weeks. He’s been outstanding for us this season. We’ve worked hard to rotate and keep everyone fit, but unfortunately, he’ll be out for a while. Thankfully, we still have good depth in midfield, which is essential with so many games coming up.”
On a brighter note, Rodgers provided positive news regarding James Forrest. The veteran winger is making progress in his recovery and has resumed light training on the pitch. While he won’t be available for the match against Dundee United or the second leg against Bayern Munich, Forrest is expected to return to action in the coming weeks.
“James had his first session back on the grass yesterday,” Rodgers said. “He’s starting to move and jog, so hopefully, in the next few weeks, he’ll be ready to rejoin the squad. He played a huge role for us last season during February and March, and I reminded him of that. He’s a brilliant player and was fantastic earlier this season as well. Maybe he doesn’t like the cold weather now that he’s getting older!”
Forrest’s injury occurred during the early stages of extra time in Celtic’s League Cup Final victory over Rangers. Despite the setback, Forrest played on, helping secure the win. The winger is eager to return and continue his streak of scoring in every season he has played for Celtic—a record he is yet to extend this season.
While Celtic will miss Bernardo’s contributions in the short term, Forrest’s impending return offers hope for a squad navigating a packed schedule. Fans will be eagerly awaiting their return to full fitness.
