Former Celtic striker Kyogo Furuhashi has posted, and then swiftly deleted it on social media that manager Brendan Rodgers played a key role in his decision to leave the Scottish champions. The post has reignited discussions about Furuhashi’s exit, with many fans and pundits questioning the circumstances surrounding his departure.
Furuhashi joined Celtic from Japanese club Vissel Kobe for a reported fee of £4.5 million. Under former manager Ange Postecoglou, the Japanese international became a talisman for the Hoops, leading the line with his pace, movement, and clinical finishing.
In his debut season, he scored a hat-trick in his first Scottish Premiership start against Dundee and quickly established himself as one of the most lethal strikers in the league. Over two seasons, Furuhashi netted 54 goals in all competitions, earning the Scottish Premiership Golden Boot and Player of the Year award. His goals helped Celtic secure multiple domestic trophies, including back-to-back league titles and League Cups.
However, his departure in early 2025 to French club Rennes for a fee of around £10 million left many fans surprised and disappointed, particularly as Celtic struggled to secure a suitable replacement. At the time, Furuhashi publicly cited a desire for a new challenge and the opportunity to test himself in a different league. He also hoped that playing in Ligue 1 would strengthen his chances of representing Japan at international tournaments.
Furuhashi’s recent social media activity has cast doubt on the official reasons behind his exit.
The deletion of the post has only added to the speculation, with fans debating whether Furuhashi had intended to make the statement public or if it was a moment of frustration. Some have speculated that his role within the squad under Rodgers may have changed compared to his time under Postecoglou, potentially leading to dissatisfaction.
Brendan Rodgers, who returned to Celtic in the summer of 2023 following Postecoglou’s move to Tottenham, has previously addressed the circumstances surrounding Furuhashi’s departure.
Speaking after the January transfer window, Rodgers acknowledged the disappointment among fans over losing such an important player but insisted that the move was unavoidable.
“If a player doesn’t want to be here, then we have to respect that,” Rodgers stated. “Kyogo was a fantastic servant to the club, and we wish him the best in his career. Our focus is on the players who are here and committed to taking Celtic forward.”
Rodgers’ comments suggest that Furuhashi may have pushed for a move, but the striker’s now-deleted social media post raises questions about whether he was fully content with how he was utilized under the Northern Irishman.
The situation has sparked widespread debate among the Celtic fanbase. Some supporters have expressed disappointment that Furuhashi left under potentially contentious circumstances, particularly given his importance to the team. Others believe that Rodgers was justified in his squad management and that no player is bigger than the club.
Media reports have also speculated about the relationship between Furuhashi and Rodgers. Some pundits believe that the striker may have felt his role in the team was diminishing under the new manager, leading to frustration and a desire to leave.
Additionally, Celtic’s handling of the January transfer window has been scrutinized. The club did not immediately replace Furuhashi with a proven striker, instead relying on existing options and reintegrating Portuguese winger Jota, who returned from a short-lived spell in Saudi Arabia.
Celtic’s Future Without Furuhashi
Despite the controversy surrounding Furuhashi’s departure, Celtic has been proactive in strengthening their squad. Jota’s return has provided a boost, and reports suggest the club is actively pursuing 18-year-old French winger Herba Guirassy from Nancy to bolster their attacking options.
Rodgers remains confident that Celtic can maintain their dominance in Scottish football while remaining competitive in European competitions. “Transitions are always difficult, but this club has always found a way to move forward,” he said in a recent interview.
Furuhashi’s Next Chapter
Since joining Rennes, Furuhashi has made a strong start in Ligue 1, scoring twice in his first five appearances. His performances have caught the attention of Japan’s national team selectors, and he remains in contention for a place in their squad for upcoming international tournaments.
However, with his latest deleted post raising fresh questions about his Celtic exit, it remains to be seen if Furuhashi will address the situation publicly or if the controversy will fade over time.
For now, Celtic fans are left to reflect on what might have been, while Rodgers and his squad focus on their pursuit of further silverware.
