Both Tounekti and Balikwisha are naturally left-sided attackers, which made the decision to swap them directly, rather than move one across to the right, a talking point after the match. The question came after fans and pundits expressed confusion over Celtic\u2019s lack of width and attacking balance, particularly given the side\u2019s struggles to create chances from the right-hand side.<\/p>\n
Rodgers<\/a>\u2019 response was sharp and definitive. He made it clear that Tounekti is viewed strictly as a left winger in his system, stating that the player doesn\u2019t enjoy or want to play off the opposite flank. The manager\u2019s tone reflected frustration with the line of questioning, standing by his decision despite growing debate about Celtic\u2019s attacking setup.<\/p>\n The situation raises further questions about squad planning in the summer transfer window, where both Balikwisha and Tounekti were signed following Nicolas K\u00fchn\u2019s departure, yet both prefer the same side of the pitch. To make matters more confusing, Tounekti recently featured for Tunisia as a right winger in a 3\u20130 World Cup qualifying win over Namibia, proving he is capable of operating there when required.<\/p>\n He said: (TCW<\/a>), \u201cNo. Never.<\/p>\n \u201cHe\u2019s a left-sided player.<\/p>\n \u201cHe doesn\u2019t play off the right.<\/p>\n \u201cHe doesn\u2019t enjoy playing there, and doesn\u2019t want to play there.<\/p>\n \u201cHe\u2019s a left-sided player.\u201d<\/p>\n Rodgers<\/a>\u2019 blunt answer will do little to ease confusion among supporters who have questioned the lack of flexibility in Celtic\u2019s front line. With both of his wide summer signings competing for the same position, Celtic\u2019s right flank continues to look short of natural options, a problem that\u2019s been evident since K\u00fchn\u2019s exit.<\/p>\n The Irishman\u2019s loyalty to his structure and player preferences may be admirable, but it leaves Celtic predictable in attack. At Tynecastle, the team struggled to stretch the game, with most of their forward play funnelling through one side, making it easier for Hearts to defend.<\/p>\n While Tounekti has shown flashes of ability since arriving, he\u2019s yet to fully convince, and Rodgers<\/a>\u2019 unwillingness to use him elsewhere could limit his influence. With Balikwisha still settling in and other options inconsistent, Celtic\u2019s wide play remains a major concern.<\/p>\n The exchange summed up a tense moment for Rodgers<\/a>, who is under pressure to find answers quickly.<\/p>\n His conviction in his players\u2019 positions is clear, but unless Celtic find more balance and creativity out wide, fans will continue to question the decisions shaping this team.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/SPFL_HEARTS_CELTIC_05458-scaled.jpg\")
26th October 2025; Tynecastle Park, Edinburgh, Scotland: Scottish Premiership Football, Hearts versus Celtic; Celtic Manager Brendan Rodgers<\/a> speaks during the press conference after the match<\/p>\n
![\"Tees](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/DANSDLKHBDS.png\")