Kieran Tierney returning to Celtic is a daft idea we shouldn't entertain.

Kieran Tierney

Yesterday, there were reports claiming that we may be in a strong position to re-sign Kieran Tierney and bring him back to Glasgow. I approach this news with the same skepticism I've had toward any rumors about Tierney returning to Celtic over the years.

To put it plainly: I'm completely opposed to this idea. I fail to grasp why anyone is enthusiastic about it. It doesn't spark any excitement in me whatsoever. I think we shouldn't go after it, and we shouldn't even entertain it. I doubt anyone would be pleased with the results if we did.

Kieran Tierney had a remarkable stint at Celtic and was a fantastic asset to the club. However, he is no longer the same player he was when he departed. Due to extensive injuries, his abilities have diminished. The desire to bring him back seems to stem more from nostalgia than any practical assessment. There are other players available who would be a more reliable choice than someone with ongoing fitness issues. I value the memories of Tierney's time at Celtic and would rather keep them intact.

This idea doesn’t benefit anyone.

If Tierney were genuinely healthy and able to play consistently, we wouldn't have a hope of acquiring him. This is common knowledge. It’s not a hidden fact. I’ve heard some folks say, “Despite his history of injuries, this could be a smart move,” but I disagree.

The reason this would be a foolish decision is his history of injuries.

If it weren't for his fitness problems, Arsenal wouldn't be allowing him to leave. Even if they were, they wouldn't let him go without a transfer fee. The only situation where Celtic would have the upper hand in re-signing him is if no other teams showed interest. If we're the leading club pursuing him, it's worth questioning why that is.

It's important to remember that Tierney made the decision to leave Celtic. Many people tend to forget this or prefer not to acknowledge it. He was eager to compete at the highest level. If he still has the chance to pursue that goal, he will take it, which makes all these discussions irrelevant—just words lost in the wind.

If Tierney isn't in good enough shape to compete regularly, then bringing him on board would be a waste of time and money. Regardless of the cost or salary arrangements, it wouldn’t make sense. Even if he were to accept a significant reduction in pay, we’d still be wasting funds chasing an unrealistic dream.

There is no valid reason related to football for this decision.

Rodgers highlights speed and strength as key traits. Does that still apply to Tierney?

This side is in excellent shape. It's clear that there have only been a few injuries during this season so far.

Being on this side means adjusting to it and being capable of reaching its standards.

Is he still able to do that?

He’s not the player he used to be. His injuries have definitely had an impact on his performance.

When he's in good shape, he still struggles to make the Arsenal lineup because he's not the same player they invested heavily in. It's essential to concentrate on players who are reliable, healthy, and have the skills needed to enhance our team. Investing resources in Tierney wouldn’t make much sense.

I find some solace in what Tierney himself has expressed. He mentioned that he wouldn't come back to Celtic unless he could play at the level he once did. He understands, just like we do, that he's not that player anymore. He realizes he can't deliver the same 100% effort as he did during his first time here. Such an experience wouldn't fulfill him, the club, or the supporters who hope for him to shine as he did before. The reality is, he just wouldn't be that player anymore.

The only astonishing aspect of this situation would be if Celtic were seriously thinking about it. I would wonder about the judgment of anyone at the club who allowed emotions to take priority over rational decision-making to such a degree. Personally, I believe it would harm the team.

I understand why some people are drawn to him, but it's time to focus on the player he is now rather than the one we remember from the past. If there was a real possibility of bringing back the Tierney we knew before, I would be thrilled. If the transfer actually goes through, I’d be so excited that I’d pull out my old jersey with his name on it and wear it for a whole week.

I don't get swayed by emotions. I appreciate him for the player he used to be, not merely because he's from our club. Let's save that kind of nonsense for the rival team nearby. The thought of Celtic Park celebrating the return of a long-lost favorite is appealing and would certainly touch the heart. But to me, that's not what really counts.

My goal is to create a team made up of dependable players—those who show up regularly and contribute reliably. If we're going to invest money, it should be in players who don't come with high risks.

The left-back position is crucial for the team. We can’t take chances by bringing in a player just because they're a big name from the past. Are we committed to being a professional club, or not? If we put someone in that position who isn't reliable to play consistently, we're being irresponsible.

I don't think there's much likelihood of this actually happening, and it really shouldn't be. Ideally, I'd want the chances to be nonexistent. Celtic is meant to be focused on creating a strong future, and decisions like this don’t fit that plan. It seems ridiculous to me, and I really hope that either Tierney or the coach clarifies their stance on this to separate themselves and the club from the idea.

We released our third podcast episode, Joyful & Triumphant, last night. We’d love for you to help us spread the word by sharing it on social media, friends!

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