James McFadden Reacts to Talk of Kieran Tierney and Andy Robertson Joining Celtic in Blockbuster Summer Move

As the 2024/25 football season wraps up, speculation surrounding Kieran Tierney’s return to Celtic is intensifying, with further intrigue sparked by talk of fellow Scotland international Andy Robertson potentially joining him. Former Scotland international James McFadden has weighed in on the matter, offering a realistic perspective on why such a double move might be unfeasible despite its appeal to Celtic supporters.

Tierney Set for Celtic Return After Arsenal Exit

Kieran Tierney’s time at Arsenal is officially drawing to a close following the conclusion of the Premier League campaign. With his contract at the Emirates set to expire at the end of June, it is widely reported that the 27-year-old left-back is poised for a return to Parkhead — a move that would see the prodigal son reunite with the club where he made his name.

Tierney, who left Celtic in 2019 for a then-record £25 million move to Arsenal, has had a mixed spell in North London. Despite early promise, injuries and tactical changes under Mikel Arteta saw his game time drastically reduced. A loan stint at Real Sociedad provided temporary relief, but a permanent exit now seems inevitable. With Arsenal finishing runners-up to Liverpool in the league this season, Tierney’s departure is part of a broader squad reshuffle at the club.

Reports suggest Tierney’s return to Celtic is close to completion and could be announced soon after his contract officially ends. His return would bring proven quality and Champions League experience to Brendan Rodgers’ side as they aim to build on another successful domestic season.

Greg Taylor Future Unclear as Schlupp Loan Ends

Celtic’s left-back department is currently in flux. Jeffrey Schlupp’s loan spell has come to an end, and Greg Taylor’s contract situation remains unresolved. Despite being a regular starter under both Ange Postecoglou and Brendan Rodgers, Taylor has yet to agree on a new deal with the club, sparking rumours he could be on his way out this summer.

Taylor, 27, has been a dependable figure in Celtic’s backline, offering a blend of defensive solidity and tactical awareness. However, with the impending arrival of Tierney, questions are being asked about his role in the team moving forward.

Should Taylor depart, Celtic would once again be short-staffed in the left-back position — a scenario the club will be keen to avoid as they prepare for another season in Europe.

Andy Robertson Suggestion Emerges on Open Goal

Amid these developments, an eye-catching suggestion emerged during a recent episode of the Open Goal podcast. With Tierney likely to return, one pundit floated the idea of Celtic making a sensational swoop for Andy Robertson, the Liverpool left-back and lifelong Celtic fan.

Robertson, who has been a key part of Jürgen Klopp’s side for several years, may find himself in a period of transition following the German manager’s departure. While there has been no official indication that the Scotland captain is seeking a move, the mere possibility of him teaming up with Tierney at Parkhead sent social media into a frenzy.

Derek Ferguson, former Rangers midfielder and Open Goal regular, asked McFadden directly: “Andy Robertson, Faddy, do you think?”

McFadden Gives Realistic Assessment

James McFadden, known for his balanced insights on Scottish football, provided a measured response. He acknowledged the fanfare such a double signing would generate but cautioned that it may not be feasible from a footballing perspective.

“I don’t think there is room for Tierney and Robertson, though,” McFadden said. “Just because the two of them will want to be the main player.”

He added that while competition for places is a hallmark of strong teams, both Tierney and Robertson would expect to play every week — a dynamic that could cause selection headaches for Rodgers.

“Greg Taylor will obviously want to be the main player too, but he would maybe cope better with the situation. If Andy Robertson leaves Liverpool, it’s because he isn’t a number one,” McFadden explained, implying that Robertson would not want to trade a starting spot at Anfield — or another top club — for a rotation role at Celtic.

Tierney and Taylor Could Coexist, Says McFadden

Turning his attention back to the current Celtic squad, McFadden stressed that Tierney and Taylor could share responsibilities at left-back should the latter remain at the club.

“It looks like it (Taylor leaving),” McFadden noted. “We have said this before. There is room at Celtic for Tierney and Taylor.”

He pointed out that due to Celtic’s congested fixture list — domestic competitions, potential Champions League qualifiers, and group-stage matches — there would be ample opportunity for both players to get minutes.

“I think the amount of games they play. The different style of player. Greg Taylor has shown, in a lot of games this season, that he still has a lot to offer,” he concluded.

McFadden’s remarks underscore a broader point about squad depth and tactical variation. Tierney, with his aggressive overlaps and athleticism, offers a different threat compared to Taylor’s more measured, positional approach. Such contrast could give Rodgers valuable flexibility next season.

Dreaming Big: The Robertson Fantasy

Despite McFadden’s reservations, the idea of Andy Robertson in a Celtic shirt is one fans will find hard to shake. A lifelong supporter of the Hoops, Robertson has often spoken about his affection for the club, and his emotional connection is well known.

Financially, though, a deal appears implausible. Robertson is under contract at Liverpool until 2026 and commands a Premier League wage package that Celtic would struggle to match, even if he accepted a significant pay cut. Moreover, he is still performing at the highest level, and with Euro 2028 on the horizon, he may be reluctant to step away from top-tier football just yet.

However, as the recent moves of players like Joe Hart, Aaron Ramsey, and Jota have shown, Scottish football is no stranger to surprises in the transfer market. A late-career move to his boyhood club is not impossible — just improbable at this moment.

What Next for Celtic?

For now, all signs point toward Tierney being the major left-back reinforcement this summer. If Taylor departs, Rodgers will still need at least one more addition in that position, especially with the demands of European football looming.

Whether that comes in the form of a rising star, an experienced squad player, or a versatile option like Schlupp returning on loan remains to be seen. But one thing is certain — the left-back spot at Celtic will be one of the most watched storylines of the summer window.

Celtic fans may not get their dream duo of Tierney and Robertson marauding down the flanks, but with Tierney’s return nearly confirmed and the possibility of keeping Taylor still on the table, Rodgers could still end up with a very solid solution at left-back.

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