In a surprising twist blending faith and football, Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers recently revealed a private message he received from none other than Pope Francis. The message, intended as a gesture of spiritual support, highlighted values of unity, perseverance, and compassion—ideals the Pope believed could inspire both Rodgers and the Celtic squad.
While Rodgers found the sentiment deeply moving, the message didn’t quite strike the same chord with the Celtic fanbase. Speaking to media, Rodgers shared, “It was a moment of great personal honour. The Pope’s words spoke to me as a leader and a man of faith.” However, fans—particularly amid a turbulent season filled with inconsistent performances—were less receptive.
For many supporters, the timing of the message felt more symbolic than practical. Some fans took to social media questioning whether divine inspiration was what the team needed, with one writing, “Nice gesture, but I’d rather see a solid backline than blessings from the Vatican.”
The disconnect may stem from broader concerns about the team’s trajectory under Rodgers’ leadership during his second spell at Parkhead. While spiritual encouragement can uplift individuals, fans are looking for tangible results on the pitch.
Despite the lukewarm reception, Rodgers maintains that the Pope’s words remain a source of personal motivation. Whether that message can eventually “transcend” to inspire improved performances remains to be seen.
