Celtic’s two unsigned contracts increasingly causing concern

Last season saw a successful league title defence, the regaining of the Premier Sports League Cup, and only a defeat on penalties denied us another Treble.

Strong domestic form reaffirming Brendan Rodgers’ command of this Celtic side was also backed up by qualification to the Play-Off round of the UEFA Champions League, where we so nearly defeated Bayern in Munich.

The Champions League arguably remains a hill to climb, we have however made great strides, and confidence is building that the club may well be on the right trajectory.

And yet, amidst all the pre-season transfer speculation and tactical discussions, a tale of two contracts, of unfinished business, threatens to cast a bit of a shadow over the campaign ahead – the unresolved futures of Daizen Maeda and Brendan Rodgers.

It was back in March when reports emerged that Celtic were actively working to extend Daizen’s deal now entering its final two years – very much a stick or twist moment in any players deal, from a club perspective at least. A first pick in the starting XI and a key figure in the high-pressing, relentless style Rodgers demands, Maeda has arguably been one of the most tactically important players in the current Celtic era.

He now regularly features in the goals and assists columns, particularly since moving centrally to replace Kyogo. His impact off the ball, his positional discipline, and his selflessness in the team shape arguably make him just invaluable to this Celtic team.

Now, as pre-season for 2025/26 is underway, there is still no official confirmation of a contract extension. That silence invites speculation — and worse, it invites interest.

Maeda is now 27, in his prime, with a growing profile in European football and as a senior figure for the Japanese national team. Clubs in Germany and England have already been linked with him in past windows, and again in this, and if his contractual status remains unclear, Celtic are walking a tightrope.

And then there’s Brendan Rodgers…

This upcoming season marks the final year of the three-year deal Rodgers signed upon returning to the club in the summer of 2023. At that time, it was a bold move — from both the board and Rodgers himself. But the results, over two seasons, have largely vindicated
that decision.

Two league titles, domestic cup silverware in both campaigns, and a stronger tactical identity have followed, after a tough first six months in the job. More importantly, Rodgers has adapted — maturing his approach in Europe, working more closely – and calmly – with the recruitment structure and showing signs he wants to build something sustainable.

Which is why the lack of clarity around his contract heading into its final year is puzzling — and potentially problematic.

It does raise the question, if Celtic are truly committed to long-term stability and progression, why has a new deal not already been tabled and signed? And if one has been discussed behind the scenes, why the continued radio silence?

There are, of course, reasonable explanations. Rodgers may be taking stock — asking himself if the board shares his ambition, especially in Europe. He may want guarantees around transfer budgets, recruitment control, or the long-term retention of key players like Daizen Maeda. On the club’s side, they may be wary of offering a long-term deal without ironclad assurances of Rodgers’ commitment — particularly given how his first stint ended.

But as understandable as the caution may be, the potential cost of further delay is far greater.

Sandman’s take on Brendan’s 2024/25 season from his wonderfully funny season review is shown below.

Allowing both the manager and one of his most crucial players to enter the final year of their contracts without resolution creates an environment ripe for media frenzy.

It opens the door to tabloid narratives: “Rodgers to the Premier League?”…“Maeda stalling over extension?”… “Celtic player/manager unsettled?” — and these headlines won’t just infuriate the fans. They’ll test the dressing room, unsettle recruitment plans, and create distractions where there should be focus.

However, this isn’t just about stability. It’s also about sending a signal. A new deal for Maeda sends a message — to fans, players, and potential signings — that Celtic can retain their top performers and reward those central to the system. An extension for Rodgers would cement the idea that Celtic have a long-term footballing vision, not just a season-by-season plan.

There’s also the European factor. With automatic Champions League qualification no longer the norm for the Scottish champions, the stakes are higher than ever. Success in Europe demands continuity, tactical clarity, and unity from the top down. It’s hard to build a five-year European plan when the manager is on a ticking clock and a key forward could be out the door any minute.

Yes, the club deserves credit for some of the smart moves made in recent windows. Yes, the recruitment structure is more aligned than it was two years ago. And yes, Celtic look better placed now than they have in too long to grow on the European stage.

But all that good work risks being undermined by two contracts still unsigned — and two stories still unfinished.

The time for hesitation has surely passed by now. Tie down Maeda. Back Rodgers. Or at the very least, offer clarity. Because if we enter the new season with speculation still swirling, Celtic could be inviting pressure they don’t need and can easily avoid.

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