Brendan Rodgers has taken a prominent step in embracing Saudi Arabian culture, appearing in a traditional outfit while holding a rifle during a national celebration. Since his appointment as manager of Saudi Pro League club Al Qadsiah in December, following his departure from Celtic two months earlier, Rodgers has been settling into life both on and off the pitch in Saudi Arabia.
Successful Start with Al Qadsiah and Participation in Founding Day
The 53-year-old coach has made a strong impression, guiding Al Qadsiah through an unbeaten streak of 13 matches since his arrival. Beyond his achievements as a manager, Rodgers has also engaged with local traditions by appearing in a promotional video for Founding Day. This holiday honors the establishment of the first Saudi State, and in the video, he wears authentic Saudi dress and carries a firearm in tribute to the occasion.
Rodgers expressed his respect for the country in the clip, stating:
“I want to give my sincere congratulations to all of the people of Saudi Arabia, Saudi has a real rich heritage and a really exciting future ahead” ?Sheikh Brendan on #FoundingDay
Public Reaction to the Video and Social Media Buzz
The video released by Al Qadsiah on their social media channels sparked widespread discussion, with many viewers reacting with surprise at Rodgers’ appearance. Some social media users mistook the clip for artificial intelligence-generated content, astonished by how authentic and unfamiliar it seemed.
One user commented,
“This looks like AI, but isn’t,”
while another wrote that they “just assumed it was AI” and described Rodgers as
“the gift that keeps on giving.”
Despite these reactions, the footage is confirmed to be genuine and showcases Rodgers’ active integration into Saudi culture.
Al Qadsiah’s Growing Presence in Saudi Football
Al Qadsiah, which is owned by the Saudi oil conglomerate Aramco, secured promotion to the Saudi top flight only last season. Nevertheless, the club has already achieved notable victories this campaign, defeating prominent teams including Al Nassr and Al Ittihad. Their roster features key players such as Italian striker Mateo Retegui, former Porto midfielder Otavio, and Belgian goalkeeper Koen Casteels, with plans to relocate to a new stadium next season.
Rodgers’ Career Moves and Return to Saudi Arabia
Before returning to Celtic for a second spell in 2023, Rodgers revealed that he had previously declined a coaching offer from Saudi Arabia. He reflected on those discussions saying,
“I spoke to a few clubs once I’d left Leicester, I spoke to a team in Saudi, but it just didn’t feel right.”
He also added,
“If I wanted to stay in the Premier League, I could’ve stayed in the Premier League, but Celtic is Celtic.”
However, Rodgers’ recent tenure at Celtic ended amid controversy. He openly criticized the club’s recruitment policies and investment during the transfer window, expressing frustration with the squad’s construction. Celtic struggled in domestic and European competitions, including an early Champions League exit at the hands of Kairat Almaty.
Internal Friction and Departure from Celtic
Rodgers’ relationship with Celtic officials became strained, leading to public accusations of disloyalty after claims of the club briefing against him in the media. Following a defeat to Hearts, he resigned from his position, leaving behind a turbulent legacy at the Glasgow-based club.
Now, Rodgers seeks a fresh chapter with Al Qadsiah, stepping into a competitive environment in the Saudi Pro League and winning supporters with both his on-field achievements and cultural engagement. His recent video appearance symbolizes not only a personal embrace of the local heritage but also a sign of increasing globalization in football coaching careers.
“I want to give my sincere congratulations to all of the people of Saudi Arabia, Saudi has a real rich heritage and a really exciting future ahead” 🇸🇦
Sheikh Brendan on #FoundingDay 🎙️#AlQadsiahpic.twitter.com/Iw689uzoeh— AlQadsiah Saudi Club (@AlQadsiahEN) February 22, 2026
