Brendan Rodgers returns to management seven weeks after leaving Celtic as new boss of Al Qadsiah

Former Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has been confirmed as the new boss of Saudi Pro League side Al Qadsiah, just seven weeks after he quit his job with the Scottish Premiership champions.

Rodgers resigned after a difficult start to the season with Celtic, which had followed a summer transfer window where he believed the club had failed to strengthen a squad that had delivered back-to-back titles during his second spell in charge.

Following his departure, Celtic’s largest single shareholder Dermot Desmond accused the manager of being “divisive, misleading, and self-serving” and that his behaviour in the final months of his time in Glasgow had contributed to a “toxic atmosphere” at the club that had led to hostility towards senior figures and the board.

Rodgers has not made any public comment on his departure from Celtic and will now look to improve the fortunes of Al Qadsiah, who are currently fifth in the Saudi league but hold ambitions to be one of Asia’s biggest sides.

Announcing the appointment, Al Qadsiah chief executive James Bisgrove, who previously held the same role at Rangers, described the move as “a landmark moment”.

He said: “Following a rigorous global recruitment process, we’re delighted to welcome Brendan to Al Khobar as our new head coach.

“This is a landmark moment for the club. The caliber of his experience and track record of winning reflects our ambition and long-term vision to establish Al Qadsiah as one of Asia’s leading clubs.

“Supported by our board of directors, an exciting and talented playing squad, world-class football staff, and passionate supporters, we’re excited to enter this next phase of the club’s development.”

Carlos Anton, sporting director of Al-Qadsiah added: “We’re thrilled to welcome Brendan to Al-Qadsiah Club and believe his elite coaching credentials and playing philosophy are an excellent fit with our football strategy.

Brendan inherits a highly talented and committed squad that is hungry for success, and I’m confident he will drive the next stage of the club’s development.

“He will work in close alignment with our performance, medical, recruitment and analysis departments to help elevate the club to the next level.”

Former Celtic player and assistant manager John Kennedy, who spent 26 years at the club in different roles, has been appointed as part of Rodgers’ coaching team.