Celtic have confirmed the departure of Harry Kewell after the Australian became the new boss of Yokohama F. Marinos.

The former Champions League winner joined the Parkhead side in the summer of 2022 where he was part of the coaching staff under Ange Postecoglou.

Speculation surrounding his future has been ongoing since fellow countryman Kevin Muscat left his role as manager of the J1 League side, with Kewell being an instant favourite for the position.

The Australian had been in talks with the Japanese club over recent weeks and has not been part of the Celtic staff for the last two fixtures.

Kewell said: "I would like to thank Celtic for giving me such a wonderful opportunity to be part of one of the world’s great football clubs. 

"It has been an absolute privilege to work with Celtic with two great managers in Brendan and Ange.

"It has been an honour to be part of such a fantastic institution and it is a time in my career and life, which I will never forget.

"I have worked with great coaches, players and backroom staff and  together we have enjoyed some brilliant moments together with the Celtic fans.

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“I would like to thank everyone at the club and all the fans who have given me and the team such brilliant support.

“I would also like to thank Brendan for giving me such support in pursuing this new opportunity. It is a very difficult decision to leave Celtic but I feel the management opportunity presented to me is one I would like to pursue.

“I will always be a Celtic supporter and i will always wish nothing but the very best for the club.

"I hope the club and our supporters can enjoy more and more success."

Brendan Rodgers added: I would also like to wish Harry all the very best for the future.

"I really enjoyed working with him, I thank him for all his work and I am sure he will enjoy the great opportunity has been given in Japan.”