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Manager looking to add to squad as Scots get ready to take on Ajax in Italy 24 Jul 2025 - Herald Sport Findlay Brown Football writer BRENDAN RODGERS says Celtic still have work to do in the transfer market as his side landed in Italy for the inaugural Como Cup . The friendly competition sees Celtic face Ajax in one semi-final, with Como 1907 and Al-Ahli in the other. The Celtic manager says there is no such thing as an exhibition match for the Glasgow club. “Pre-season is designed to develop your football fitness, but I say it to the players, when you’re a big club like Celtic, there’s never a friendly; they are always tests for you ,” he said. “We didn’t dominate last year; we won two out of three trophies . So we believe we can be even better this season on the domestic front.” Since returning from their summer break, Celtic have recorded four wins and one loss, including an emphatic 4-0 victory over Newcastle at home. The Parkhead manager was asked if the time has allowed him to ti...

BRENDAN Rodgers insists he’s in charge of all Celtic signings and understands fans’ itch for new arrivals.  WARM-UP Rodgers gears up for friendly against Ajax in Como tonight Rodgers: I call the shots when it comes to new Bhoys – and I hear the fans loud and clea 24 Jul 2025 - Daily Record FROM MICHAEL GANNON IN COMO The Parkhead boss has shot down suggestions of a difference between club signings and his targets. And while Rodgers described new boys Shin Yamada, Hayato Inamura and Callum Osmand as part of the club’s long-term strategy, he made it clear he has the final say on all signings – plus focused on landing players ready to make an instant impact. Rodgers said: “It’s pretty straightforward. There will be players within our recruitment team that are not just for now but for the future . Clearly, I’ll look at those players and assess – and see if those players can come in and play. “Then there will be other players we specifically need . It’s still very much joined up. I su...