Celtic Eyes Robbie Keane as Future Manager Amidst Major Overhaul Plans
Robbie Keane emerges as the leading candidate to take over as the next Celtic manager, as the club prepares to revamp its football operations at the end of the current season. Keane’s successful tenures at Ferencvaros and Maccabi Tel Aviv position him as the prime choice to succeed Martin O’Neill, whose interim spell will conclude this summer. Celtic’s decision-makers believe that Keane may be open to a move to Glasgow, although competition from other British clubs is expected. He had been linked to a return to Tottenham following the dismissal of Thomas Frank, but he rejected a short-term role offered by Igor Tudor. Formal negotiations with Keane will not commence until the domestic season wraps up, but he remains firmly on Celtic’s radar. Other candidates under consideration include Craig Bellamy and Jens Berthel Askou. Bellamy's situation is complicated by Wales’s participation in the World Cup playoffs, while Askou has garnered significant praise for his accomplishments at Motherwell. However, some within Celtic worry that Askou might face challenges adjusting from Fir Park to Celtic Park. This summer, Celtic anticipates a major player overhaul, especially after facing criticism for their recent transfer strategies. Keane, who briefly played for Celtic in 2010, won the title in his only full season managing in Israel and currently leads Ferencvaros to joint top of the Hungarian top flight while competing in the Europa League. O’Neill aims to secure a domestic double at 74 years old, yet his tenure has always been viewed as temporary. Shaun Maloney, O’Neill’s assistant, is expected to transition to a senior role within the club after the season concludes, reflecting his high regard among Celtic’s leadership. Celtic began the season under Brendan Rodgers, who resigned amid controversy. Keane was considered then, but the club opted for O’Neill, later dismissing Wilfried Nancy after a disappointing start. O’Neill has since stabilized the team, which currently trails Hearts by five points in the Scottish Premiership.
Source: The Guardian Sport - 2026-03-12