Global media scrutinizes Brendan Rodgers as Celtic faces a harsh reality check in the Champions League

Celtic‘s aspirations of making a significant impact in European football took a severe blow as they were steamrolled by Borussia Dortmund in a crushing 5-1 defeat. This match, which was expected to showcase a more competitive Celtic side, instead highlighted the alarming gulf in quality between the two teams and raised serious questions about the leadership of manager Brendan Rodgers.

Entering the match, Celtic had hopes of proving they were better equipped to face Europe’s elite, particularly against a Dortmund team that had not reached the same heights as last season’s Champions League runners-up. However, what transpired at Signal Iduna Park was a stark reminder of the challenges Celtic face on the continental stage.

The game turned into a nightmare for Celtic fans as their team found themselves down 5-1 by halftime, with a shell-shocked squad unable to mount any significant resistance against the relentless Dortmund attack. The performance was characterized by defensive frailties and a lack of cohesion that would have left supporters and pundits alike questioning the club’s ambitions and strategy.

International media reacted swiftly to the defeat, with many outlets echoing sentiments of disbelief at how quickly Celtic’s game plan unravelled. “What was supposed to be a competitive matchup quickly turned into a ‘big slap’ for Celtic,” noted one commentator, emphasizing the chasm in class between the two clubs.

Brendan Rodgers, who returned to Celtic amid high expectations, now finds himself under a global microscope. Questions are being raised about his ability to inspire and adapt the team at the highest level. His tactics, which seemed promising in domestic competitions, have come under scrutiny after this humbling experience in Europe. “Rodgers must now face a crucial moment in his managerial career,” commented a respected sports analyst, highlighting the precarious position he is in after such a disappointing result.

Celtic supporters were vocal in their disappointment, taking to social media to express their frustrations over the team’s lack of fight and the seeming disconnect between the manager’s plans and the players’ execution. “We were led to believe this team could compete, yet we find ourselves outclassed and outplayed,” one fan lamented.

The defeat serves as a wake-up call for Celtic, highlighting the work that remains to be done if they are to challenge on the European front. With the group stage still ongoing, there is a critical need for the team to regroup and address the evident gaps in their performance.

As the dust settles on this heavy loss, the immediate focus will be on the upcoming fixtures, where Celtic must strive to rebuild their confidence. For Brendan Rodgers, the road ahead is fraught with pressure; he must demonstrate that he can turn this situation around and lead Celtic back to a competitive stance in European football.

The world of football watches closely as Celtic navigates the aftermath of this humiliating defeat, eager to see if they can rise from the ashes and reclaim their place as a formidable force in European competitions.