EXPLAINED: WHY MANCHESTER CITY WANT TO BRING JOE HART BACK TO ETIHAD STADIUM FROM CELTIC

WHAT HAPPENED?

According to the Daily Record, City will offer Hart a return to the club after the 2023/24 season in a non-footballing or ambassadorial capacity.

The former England international is set to call an end to his 19-year professional career and City are ready to hold talks regarding his next move.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Hart, who made over 200 appearances for City across all competitions from 2006 to 2018, does not want to venture down the coaching role - hence the non-footballing roles being discussed.

The 37-year-old is set to decide which direction he wants to go in once he retires, although continuing at Celtic is also a possibility.

WHAT HAS BEEN SAID

Speaking on Hart, Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers said in January: “It’s nothing that we’re looking at just now. There are other areas we have to look at.

"There will be positions in the summer we’ll be able to improve and it will be the same in January. But I love working with Joe, he’s a great guy.

"At that age, I think he’s just happy to be playing. Joe’s family is down south so he’s shown incredible commitment to be up here. Are you going to stay up here without your family if you are not playing as a number one?

“He’s had a long career and I love being with him every day. He has a real positive energy and he’s been a great leader for this team."

WHAT NEXT FOR HART?

For now, Hart will remain focused on ending the season in the best way possible with Celtic. Rodgers' side currently hold a three point lead on Rangers in second across the Scottish Premiership as the Hoops look to retain the title.

Elsewhere, the two sides will also meet in the Scottish Cup final on May 25.