Celtic boss reflects on Callum McGregor’s Scotland retirement decision

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has expressed his hidden satisfaction following captain Callum McGregor’s decision to retire from international football

McGregor, who has proudly worn the Scotland jersey 62 times and participated in two major tournaments, has opted to step back from being selected by Steve Clarke after the national team’s disappointing performance at Euro 2024, where they were unable to advance from Group A.

Rodgers commended McGregor’s commitment to representing his country but acknowledged that the decision, which the Hoops boss was aware of prior to the official announcement on Friday, should benefit the reigning Scottish Premiership holders

With fewer international commitments, the Celtic skipper will have the opportunity to rest and rejuvenate during breaks, allowing him to focus on leading the Hoops to further success as they aim for more silverware throughout the 2024/25 season.

“I had obviously spoken to Callum on that and was aware of his intentions,” Rodgers explained.

“He’s had a great seven years with Scotland and won 62 caps.

“From a selfish point of view and for Celtic it’s really good news as he’ll get the chance to recover. I think you all know how many games he plays so this will give him those little opportunities to have a breather.”

McGregor played 45 times for Celtic last season, and his absence was missed when he was injured between February 28 and his big return during the 3-3 draw with Rangers on April 7.

Rodgers knows the 31-year-old sets his extremely high standards and revealed just how much the midfielder lives and breathes football.

“He is really intense, which is what I love about him,” he continued.

“His appetite is to improve and he never has a day off, even if he has a free day he is recovering or thinking about the game. So these little windows will give him the chance to do that. But he’s had a fantastic career for his country that he can be very proud of.