Celtic need a miracle to stay in the Europa League. The Hoops are in Spain to take on Valencia in the second leg of the last 32 encounter, facing a 2-0 deficit.
It would be a huge feather in the cap of Brendan Rodgers if he masterminded an unlikely comeback. It would also help to build his reputation in Europe, which is on the slide after a superb first season.
First season in Europe was excellent
Celtic’s performances in Europe in Rodgers’ first season were excellent. The 3-3 draw with Manchester City being the highlight of the campaign.
Since then though, it has been disappointing, culminating in the dire 3-0 loss to Zenit in the Europa League last season.
Rodgers naturally deserves credit for qualifying for the Champions League group stages in two of his three seasons in charge at Celtic.
A downward trajectory
That has earned the Hoops plenty of money which is vital to the club going forward. But after that stellar first season, performances have been on a downward trajectory.
If the Hoops boss eventually wants to move on to a club in the top tier when he leaves the Hoops, performances in Europe have to improve.
There is no denying that Rodgers has been incredible for the Hoops domestically. So far he has won every domestic trophy that has been available.
Europe seems to have stagnated though, and Rodgers must look to address that against Valencia.
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