Kemar Roofe reveals he turned down Celtic before Rangers

Kemar Roofe’s decision to turn down Celtic in favor of joining Rangers is a significant chapter in his career, reflecting not only his personal ambitions but also the intense rivalry between the two Glasgow clubs. This narrative delves into the factors that influenced Roofe’s choice, the implications for both clubs, and the broader context of Scottish football.

Background on Kemar Roofe

Kemar Roofe, born on January 1, 1993, in Harrogate, England, began his professional career at Leeds United, where he showcased his goal-scoring abilities. After a successful stint at Leeds, Roofe moved to the Scottish Premiership, where he quickly became a key player for Rangers. His versatility as a forward and his knack for finding the back of the net made him an attractive target for several clubs, including Celtic.

The Celtic Interest

Celtic, one of the most successful clubs in Scottish football history, has a rich tradition of attracting top talent. Under the management of Neil Lennon, the club was looking to bolster its squad to maintain its dominance in the league. Roofe’s impressive performances at Leeds caught the attention of Celtic scouts, who saw him as a potential replacement for outgoing players or as an addition to their attacking options.

The allure of joining Celtic, a club with a storied history and a passionate fan base, was undoubtedly tempting for Roofe. Celtic’s consistent success in the league and their participation in European competitions presented an opportunity for Roofe to showcase his talents on a larger stage.

The Rangers Move

Despite the interest from Celtic, Roofe ultimately chose to join Rangers. This decision was influenced by several factors:

1. Club Philosophy and Ambition: Rangers, under the management of Steven Gerrard, were in a phase of rebuilding and had a clear vision for the future. Roofe was attracted to the idea of being part of a project aimed at restoring Rangers to their former glory. The club’s ambition to challenge Celtic’s dominance in Scottish football resonated with Roofe’s personal goals.

2. Playing Style: Roofe’s playing style aligned well with Gerrard’s tactical approach. The manager’s emphasis on attacking football and the opportunity to play in a system that suited Roofe’s strengths were significant factors in his decision. He saw a chance to thrive in a team that would utilize his skills effectively.

3. Rivalry and Challenge: The fierce rivalry between Rangers and Celtic, known as the Old Firm, is one of the most intense in world football. Roofe’s decision to join Rangers can be seen as a challenge to himself, as he would be stepping into a high-pressure environment where performances are scrutinized, and success is expected. The prospect of playing in such a competitive atmosphere was likely appealing to Roofe.

4. Support from Management: The support and belief shown by Gerrard and the Rangers management team played a crucial role in Roofe’s decision. The club’s commitment to investing in talent and creating a winning culture was evident, and Roofe felt that he would be valued and given the opportunity to make a significant impact.