News Focus
- Celtic fan groups oppose Robbie Keane’s potential appointment as manager
- Protest centres on Keane’s tenure at Maccabi Tel Aviv during the Gaza conflict
- 67 supporters clubs endorse statement citing club’s founding principles
- Keane held discussions with Celtic majority shareholder Dermot Desmond
- Former striker cites duty to staff as reason for remaining in Israel
Celtic Football Club faces fresh pressure from its own supporters over the potential appointment of Robbie Keane. Multiple fan organisations have publicly rejected the idea of the former Republic of Ireland striker taking charge at Parkhead. The protest centres on Keane’s recent managerial position with Maccabi Tel Aviv.
The controversy stems from the Irishman’s decision to remain in Israel after the conflict in Gaza began. Keane accepted the Tel Aviv role in June 2023. He stayed in the position following the October attacks until his departure in summer 2024. This choice has angered sections of the Celtic support who view the club as a symbol of resistance against oppression.
A coalition calling itself Celtic Fans for the Liberation of Palestine released a formal statement. They claim hiring Keane would split the fanbase. The North Curve Celtic social media account has since published a list of 67 groups supporting this position. The list includes prominent names such as the Green Brigade, Glasgow University Celtic Supporters Club, and various podcast collectives.
The statement references Celtic’s origins within the Irish immigrant community. It highlights how the club was built by people who escaped famine and displacement. The fans argue these roots demand solidarity with those facing similar suffering today. They describe Keane’s employment in Israel during the crisis as impossible to ignore.
Reports suggest Keane has met with principal shareholder Dermot Desmond about the vacant manager’s post. The 45-year-old previously enjoyed a successful loan spell at Celtic in 2010. He later explained on a podcast that he felt a deep responsibility towards his players and staff in Tel Aviv. This duty, he said, influenced his choice to continue working there.
Celtic currently operates under interim manager Martin O’Neill. The club secured a domestic double last season despite significant unrest among supporters. Shareholders previously disrupted the annual general meeting in November. The tension centred on accusations that some fans acted as bullies towards the board.