Left-back Alexandro Bernabei has left Celtic on loan to Brazilian side SC Internacional until the end of their 2024 season.
There’s been no word of the deal on any of the Bhoys’ official social media channels or website, but it was announced in Brazil on Thursday.
Now, Brendan Rodgers has explained the circumstances behind the move and shared the player really wanted to be playing regular football.
Rodgers on Alexandro Bernabei Celtic exit
The Bhoys boss said in a media conference: “He’s a really, really good professional. He never gave me a minute’s problem since I’ve been here and trained hard every day. But, he needs to and wants to go and play.
“His chances, I could only be open and honest and say it would be limited here. That chance to go to Brazil, the team he’s gone with has an Argentinian coach – hopefully he can play regular football.”
On the lack of depth now at left-back behind Greg Taylor, Rodgers continued: “Listen, it’s something that if I didn’t want it to happen then it didn’t have to happen.
“I’m confident enough with what I have in the squad for the remainder of the season that we will have coverage in that position. Liam Scales has played there and we can have other options to play there.”
With a maximum of 12 games left this season, Bernabei’s exit shouldn’t have too much impact on squad depth.
Bernabei only made four starts this season so it’s as if he’s been relied upon too much. Rodgers is comfortable and personally signed off on the deal.
The departure frees up Celtic to sign a left-back option in the summer transfer window without waiting around on the Argentinian’s situation.
Celtic fans will be hoping to see a player of real quality signed in the position, addressing a key failure of the previous two recruitment windows.
Bernabei’s contract at the Bhoys runs until 2027 and it remains to be seen if Internacional have an option to buy the 23-year-old.
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