Celtic are preparing for a major overhaul of their football operations this summer, with former striker Robbie Keane emerging as the leading candidate to take over as manager. The move would coincide with the conclusion of Martin O’Neill’s interim spell in charge.
The club’s decision-makers are reportedly confident they can attract Keane, who is currently managing Ferencvaros in Hungary, to Glasgow. His successful stints with Maccabi Tel Aviv and Ferencvaros, where he has secured league titles and maintained European involvement, have solidified his standing as the preferred option. While other clubs in Britain may express interest, Celtic believe their project could be a compelling fit.
Keane is not the only name under consideration. Burnley’s Craig Bellamy is also admired, though his potential involvement in the World Cup playoffs with Wales presents a complication. Another figure in the frame is Motherwell’s Jens Berthel Askou, whose work at Fir Park has drawn praise, though some at Celtic reportedly question whether he is ready for such a significant step up.
The search for a permanent manager follows a turbulent season. After Brendan Rodgers’s departure, a brief and unsuccessful pursuit of Wilfried Nancy ended poorly, prompting O’Neill’s return to steady the ship. The club is now looking ahead to a summer that will also involve a substantial reshaping of the playing squad, amid acknowledged criticism of recent transfer activity.
Keane, who had a short playing spell at Celtic Park in 2010, would bring a proven track record of delivering silverware. Meanwhile, O’Neill, 74, could yet cap his temporary return with a domestic double before stepping aside. His assistant, Shaun Maloney, is expected to transition into a senior off-field role at the club.
With the Scottish Premiership season entering its final stages, Celtic sit five points behind leaders Hearts, adding urgency to the long-term planning now underway.
