Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has called on his team to leave everything on the pitch as they take on Bayern Munich in their Champions League play-off second leg. Trailing 2-1 from the first match in Glasgow, the Scottish side will need a top-level performance to overturn the deficit at the Allianz Arena.
Rodgers emphasized the importance of playing without hesitation, acknowledging that there are no second chances at this stage of the competition. “We need to be intelligent, bold, and composed,” he stated. “History has shown that anything is possible in sport if you believe and apply yourself.”
Celtic’s recent record in Germany does not work in their favor, as they have never won in 15 previous attempts. Bayern, on the other hand, have dominated at home in this competition, going unbeaten in their last 20 Champions League matches. The German giants have also won four of their five meetings with Celtic.
Despite these statistics, Rodgers is drawing confidence from his squad’s determination and mentality. “We finished strongly in the first leg, and that gives us hope. Daizen Maeda’s goal showed our resilience, and if we perform to our full potential, we can make life difficult for Bayern.”
Rodgers confident in team’s mentality
The Celtic boss is encouraged by his players’ professionalism and attitude ahead of the crucial encounter. “I couldn’t be prouder of this group. Their mindset and discipline are incredible,” Rodgers said. “We must take our opportunity and leave the pitch knowing we have given absolutely everything. If Bayern win because they were the better side, we will accept it, but we do not want to walk away with regrets.”
Rodgers also pointed out that if his team plays at their peak and Bayern are slightly off their game, an upset could be possible. “Football is unpredictable, and we have proven before that we can take advantage of any weaknesses. While many see us as the underdogs, we believe we can be highly competitive.”
The manager hinted at tactical adjustments, including the possibility of playing Maeda in a more central attacking role. “We’ve considered that as an option. We have a game plan, and we know the physical demands at this level require contributions from every player.”
Kane’s fitness in question as Bayern assess squad
Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane missed training on Monday after picking up a facial injury in the weekend draw against Bayer Leverkusen. However, head coach Vincent Kompany played down concerns over the forward’s availability. “It’s not a serious issue, but with the short recovery time, we’ll have to see how he feels on matchday,” Kompany explained.
Bayern will still be without key players Joao Palhinha and Alphonso Davies, both of whom missed the first leg and are unlikely to recover in time. However, central defender Kim Min-jae is set to return after featuring in Bayern’s previous match.
Celtic, in contrast, have a full squad to choose from, with Rodgers confirming that Jota is fit to start. “Having everyone available is a huge boost,” he added. “We know the challenge ahead, but we are ready to give our all and take the fight to Bayern.”
