Celtic Eyes Future: O’Neill and Keane in Talks Amid Managerial Uncertainty
Celtic principal shareholder Dermot Desmond is set to meet with Martin O’Neill and Robbie Keane this week regarding the managerial vacancy at the club. The hierarchy at Celtic is open to O’Neill continuing as manager if he chooses to stay, provided the terms are mutually agreeable. Even if O’Neill opts out of the managerial role, the club hopes to retain him in a supportive capacity. O’Neill had a remarkable return to Celtic last season, leading the team to a dramatic domestic double in the final week. Should he decide to step away, Celtic will initiate a recruitment process for their next manager, with several candidates already being considered. Key points include: Robbie Keane, a former Celtic striker and free agent after leaving Ferencvaros, is a favored candidate for the managerial position. Desmond is particularly keen on Keane, who has a successful managerial record, including titles in Israel and Hungary. Craig Bellamy and Roberto Martinez are also in the mix. Bellamy, currently managing Wales, has reiterated his commitment to the national team, dismissing immediate club offers despite previous interest from Celtic. Martinez, the Portugal national team coach, is viewed as a less likely candidate due to his commitments leading up to the upcoming World Cup. Celtic aims to finalize a managerial appointment ahead of pre-season, though this may pose challenges, especially with Martinez's situation.
Source: Sky Sports - 2026-06-01