Brendan Rodgers sparks online buzz with Saudi Arabia promotional video
Brendan Rodgers has set the internet alight after appearing in a promotional video for Saudi Arabia’s Founding Day celebrations, with many viewers initially believing they were watching AI-generated footage, reports BritPanorama.
The former Liverpool and Celtic boss, now managing Saudi Pro League side Al Qadsiah, donned full traditional Saudi robes and posed with a rifle for the clip posted on his club’s social media channels. The club has confirmed that the footage is entirely genuine.
In the video, Rodgers offered his “sincere congratulations to all of the people of Saudi Arabia,” adding that the country “has a real rich heritage and a really exciting future ahead.” His appearance, complete with traditional attire, triggered a wave of reactions online, with users expressing disbelief at the authenticity of the clip. “This looks like AI, but isn’t,” wrote one bewildered viewer.
Complimented on looking “sharp” in the traditional garb, the 53-year-old displayed a touch of self-deprecating humour, remarking, “It probably looks a lot cooler on other people.” He emphasized the significance of the day, stating, “Today is about respecting Founding Day here in Saudi Arabia, and of course, I will always respectfully wear it. It feels nice and cool.”
Rodgers also shared his fondness for the people in the kingdom, conveying that he feels “a real peace with the people here,” while praising “the kindness of everyone.” Since taking charge at Al Qadsiah in mid-December, Rodgers has led the team to an impressive 13-match unbeaten streak, placing them fourth in the Saudi Pro League, just five points behind leaders Al-Nassr.
This marks a significant turnaround for a manager whose departure from Celtic last October was mired in controversy. The club’s largest shareholder, Dermot Desmond, labeled him “divisive, misleading, and self-serving,” accusing Rodgers of fostering a “toxic atmosphere” at Parkhead.
The online response to the promotional clip has been predictably entertaining, with users noting the surreal nature of Rodgers’s embrace of Saudi culture. One commented that “Brendan Rodgers with a gun was an interesting opening of the app.” Such modern spectacles remind spectators how even the unlikeliest of scenarios can stir conversation around cultural intersections in sport.
