Celtic’s season has been a significant one both domestically and in Europe, but the imminent departure of striker Kyogo has sparked controversy among fans and pundits alike.
Despite their success, Celtic’s forward line has been a concern for Brendan Rodgers, with Adam Idah struggling to consistently deliver since his permanent move to Celtic Park.
Rodgers recently addressed the decision to let Kyogo leave for a fee of around £10 million, revealing that the Japanese striker had expressed his desire to depart some time ago.
“Kyogo expressed an interest to leave a number of months back,” Rodgers explained.
“That expression becomes stronger and obviously it gets to the stage where he clearly wants to leave. Sadly, we then have to do a deal and finalise that with him.”
Kyogo has been prolific for Celtic, notably scoring 27 league goals during Ange Postecoglou’s final season. However, his absence will leave a void as the Bhoys aim to secure another league title and advance further in the UEFA Champions League.
Celtic’s European campaign has already been a success, with the team progressing from the group stage following a crucial win over Young Boys earlier this week.
A victory against Aston Villa next week could even allow them to bypass the play-off knockout round, depending on other results.
Chris Sutton slams Celtic over Kyogo exit
While this season has seen Celtic reach the UCL knockout stages for the first time since 2012/13, club legend Chris Sutton has criticized the decision to sell Kyogo at such a pivotal moment.
Speaking on Sky Sports, Sutton expressed his frustration:
“To get through is absolutely brilliant for Celtic, they have made progress but then they have gone and sold Kyogo… why!?
“I don’t understand it. Celtic have gone through, earned the right to get through. Would Celtic stand a better chance of progressing if Kyogo was still at the club? I believe so.
“Let’s wait to the end of the window and judge but right now I do not understand the decision.
“It seems that Celtic are saying ‘we’ve got to the playoffs, that is our season.’ I’d like to be a little bit more ambitious.
“If the gap was two points at the top would they have sold Kyogo? We all know the answer to that.
“Aston Villa on Wednesday, battle of Britain, big game. I want to see Kyogo playing in that game.
“It is as simple as this: Would Celtic stand a better chance in the next round of the Champions League if Kyogo played?”
“Kyogo’s desire to leave certainly played a role but his presence could be felt if Celtic are blunt in attack when the knockouts come around.”
Sutton acknowledged Kyogo’s desire to leave but emphasized the impact his absence could have if Celtic struggle to convert chances in the knockouts.
In his absence, the pressure will fall on Adam Idah, who has delivered important goals since joining the club, and Daizen Maeda, who is expected to play a prominent role. Meanwhile, former Shamrock Rovers forward Johnny Kenny will hope to make an impression as he continues to develop at Celtic.
