Kasper Schmeichel On His ‘Really Close’ Friendship with Joe Hart

Kasper Schmeichel is on the brink of joining Celtic, with a deal that will see him become the club’s first-choice goalkeeper for the next 12 months. The 37-year-old Danish stopper has been a free agent since leaving Anderlecht in the summer and looks set to reunite with his former manager, Brendan Rodgers.

Schmeichel’s experience and skill will be a significant boost for Celtic. His previous stint with Rodgers at Leicester City saw them lift the FA Cup, and he has also won the Premier League. Rodgers will be hoping Schmeichel can bring the same level of excellence to Celtic Park.

Adding to the appeal of this move is Schmeichel’s relationship with former Celtic goalkeeper Joe Hart. Hart, who retired this summer after helping Celtic secure a domestic double, became a beloved figure among the fans. Schmeichel and Hart’s History dates back to their days at Manchester City, where they vied for the number one spot. Though Hart ultimately won that battle, their rivalry forged a strong friendship.

In an interview on This is Football, Schmeichel reflected on their time together and the mutual respect that defined their relationship:

“Like me and Joe, in a long run, wouldn’t work because we both had the mentality of number ones.

“But it never affected our friendship. We’re still really close friends now. And that again, that just comes from a mutual respect.

“At the end of the day, it’s not his fault that I didn’t play or it’s the manager that chooses. So it’s up to us to push each other. Me and Joe, we pushed each other, but in a great way.”

Schmeichel’s imminent arrival at Celtic will not only bring a seasoned goalkeeper to the squad but also a player who can provide leadership in the dressing room. His connection with Hart, coupled with his proven track record under Rodgers, suggests he could be a key figure in Celtic’s quest for silverware this season.

As Celtic get set to jet off for their USA pre-season camp, it’s clear Kasper will join up with his new teaMMAtes sooner rather than later and we wish him all the best.