Celtic Manager Brendan Rodgers Resigns Amid Toxic Atmosphere Allegations

Brendan Rodgers resigned as Celtic manager immediately following a 3-1 defeat to Hearts, leaving the club eight points behind league leaders. Celtic confirmed his departure and thanked him for his contributions during two successful spells. However, Dermot Desmond, Celtic's major shareholder, issued a scathing statement accusing Rodgers of creating a "toxic atmosphere" and being "divisive, misleading and self-serving," criticizing his conduct and communication in recent months. Tensions had been escalating over the club's transfer dealings, with Rodgers publicly expressing dissatisfaction with the lack of reinforcements and the board admitting failure in achieving transfer window goals. Former Celtic manager Martin O'Neill and ex-player Shaun Maloney have been appointed as interim managers. The situation reflects a significant breakdown between Rodgers and the club hierarchy amid growing fan frustration and poor recent performances.