Brendan Rodgers reacts to 'desperately sad' Celtic transfer news as he reveals talks with star at his house

Brendan Rodgers has wished Liel Abada a fond Celtic farewell after his move to Charlotte FC was confirmed.

The Israeli winger has not been in the right frame of mind to feature for the Hoops of late according to the boss, amid the war in his homeland with Hamas. He now moves to America on a deal that goes through 2026 with an option until 2027.

Rodgers has hailed the impact Abada made following his Premiership arrival in 2021 and reveals a meeting at his house before the star's Celtic exit. He said ahead of this weekend's Scottish Cup tie with Livingston: "Firstly, it is desperately sad, the whole situation. Fantastic young player. Came in here as a young man, lit up the field with so many fantastic goals and had a really successful period.

"Whatever doubts he had in the summer, he was happy to commit and signed a new deal. I spoke to Liel on Monday evening. I had him round the house as I knew he would be travelling the next morning. Desperately sad as I was looking forward to working with him over a period of time.

"He has created some wonderful memories here. We wish him all the best over in America. He did so well for the club. We are losing a very good player."

Left-back Alexandro Bernabei has also left on loan to join Brazilian side Internacional for the rest of the year. Rodgers added: "Berna never gave us a minute's problem while I have been here and trained hard every day. He wants to play and you can only be open and honest and say they will be limited for him here. He can go and play regular football."