News Focus
- Celtic chiefs have held positive discussions with former striker Robbie Keane about the manager’s job.
- Club shareholder Dermot Desmond will meet interim boss Martin O’Neill within 24 hours to discuss his future role.
- O’Neill could stay as manager on a short deal or move to an advisory position if he declines the top job.
- Wales manager Craig Bellamy remains on the club’s wishlist despite his public commitment to his national team.
- Celtic hope to appoint a new boss before pre-season training begins.
Celtic Football Club have opened formal talks with Robbie Keane regarding their vacant managerial position. The Scottish giants are searching for a permanent boss after recent changes in the dugout.
Club shareholder Dermot Desmond plans to speak with interim manager Martin O’Neill before the end of this week. He wants to know if the 74-year-old wishes to continue in the role. If O’Neill agrees, the club may offer him a short-term contract. However, if he prefers not to take the job permanently, Celtic could offer him a position in their football operations department or as a consultant.
Keane, who played for the Glasgow club as a forward, recently left his post at Hungarian side Ferencvaros. He is now a free agent and available for immediate appointment. Reports suggest he wants to build a coaching team that includes Stephen Glass, Scott Brown, and Jonny Hayes if he gets the position.
The former Republic of Ireland international has built an impressive managerial record in recent seasons. He guided Maccabi Tel Aviv to the Israeli Premier League title and Toto Cup in 2024. He then moved to Ferencvaros and won the Hungarian championship in 2025, plus the Magyar Kupa, before his departure last month.
Celtic also maintain interest in Craig Bellamy, the current Wales national team boss. Bellamy stated on Monday that he remains fully committed to his role with Wales as they prepare for Euro 2028 qualifiers. He turned down several club approaches earlier this year to focus on international duty. However, the Scottish club may still test his interest in the coming days.
O’Neill returned to Celtic Park twice last season and helped secure a domestic double. The club values his experience but understands he may wish to step away from frontline management.
Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez has also been mentioned as a possible candidate. However, his involvement in this summer’s World Cup makes him an unlikely choice. The club wants a manager in place before players return for pre-season preparations.