Rodgers: Celtic options more Honda than Ferrari

Following Celtic’s 2-0 defeat away to Dundee—their first loss at Dens Park in 37 years—manager Brendan Rodgers delivered a blunt assessment of his squad’s attacking deficiencies, drawing a vivid comparison between his current options and the caliber required to compete at the highest level[1]. Rodgers suggested the club’s forwards are more “Honda Civic” than “Ferrari,” implying that, while reliable, they lack the explosive, game-changing quality associated with elite footballers.

Rodgers, who returned for a second spell last summer aiming to restore Celtic’s domestic dominance and make an impact in Europe, has voiced increasing frustration over the club’s recruitment strategy, particularly in the attacking third. He openly questioned whether the signings have given him the “speed” and “quality” necessary to unlock packed defenses in the Premiership or to trouble stronger opponents in European competitions.

The defeat to Dundee—described as “huge frustration” by Rodgers—was marked by missed chances and a lack of cutting edge in the final third. The manager stressed the need for “different quality” and “more speed in certain areas” if Celtic are to progress both domestically and on the continent[1]. This pointed critique underlines a broader concern about the club’s ambition in the transfer market, with Rodgers making it clear he expects more significant investment to bolster the squad.

Rodgers’ Honda Civic–Ferrari analogy—while attention-grabbing—is ultimately a call for the club’s hierarchy to deliver the caliber of players that can elevate Celtic beyond predictable Scottish rivals and compete with Europe’s best. The manager’s remarks suggest an urgent need for reinforcements in attack and a clear message to the board: without higher-quality recruits, Celtic’s aspirations—both at home and abroad—may remain unfulfilled[1].