Celtic are once again at a crossroads following the sudden resignation of Brendan Rodgers and the temporary return of club legend Martin O’Neill.
While O’Neill will lead the team on an interim basis, attention is already turning to who could take charge of the Scottish champions in the long term.
Below, we examine five potential candidates – ranging from proven winners to emerging coaches – who could be considered for one of British football’s most demanding jobs.
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1. Ange Postecoglou
A return to Glasgow for Ange Postecoglou would be an extraordinary twist in Celtic’s modern history. The Australian revolutionised the club during his two-year tenure between 2021 and 2023, delivering five major trophies including a domestic treble before leaving for Tottenham Hotspur.
His time in England has been eventful. Postecoglou won the Europa League with Spurs in 2025, before taking a short-lived role at Nottingham Forest, which ended after just 40 days. Despite that, his reputation for progressive, attacking football and squad rebuilding remains intact.
Postecoglou’s philosophy and familiarity with the club make him the most natural candidate should he seek a return to a more stable environment. Whether Celtic could realistically tempt him back is another matter.
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2. Kieran McKenna
Few young managers have risen as quickly as Kieran McKenna. Appointed at Ipswich Town in late 2021, the former Manchester United coach guided the club from League One to the Premier League in successive seasons.
Under his leadership, Ipswich have become one of the most tactically disciplined and possession-oriented sides in England’s top flight. His success earned him a new contract through to 2028 and the EFL Championship Manager of the Season award in 2024.
McKenna’s modern coaching methods, focus on detail, and player development ethos align perfectly with Celtic’s long-term ambitions.
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3. Robbie Keane
A national icon and former Celtic striker, Robbie Keane has quietly been building his managerial career across Europe. After assistant roles with the Republic of Ireland, Leeds United and Middlesbrough, he stepped into head coaching with Maccabi Tel Aviv, where he won a league and cup double in 2023–24.
In early 2025, Keane was appointed manager of Ferencváros in Hungary, where he continues to enhance his reputation for attack-minded football and strong man-management.
Keane’s Celtic connection and emerging coaching credentials could make him an exciting outside bet. He still lacks top-five league experience, but his leadership and energy are undeniable assets.
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4. Craig Bellamy
Currently the manager of the Wales national team, Craig Bellamy has transitioned from assistant roles to leadership with growing success. After serving as Vincent Kompany’s right-hand man at Burnley, Bellamy took charge of Wales in mid-2024 and has been praised for instilling intensity and tactical discipline.
As a player, Bellamy’s brief spell at Celtic left a strong impression, and his coaching career suggests a modern, driven personality capable of building competitive teams.
Bellamy offers a progressive, high-tempo approach and a deep understanding of British football culture. While still early in his managerial career, his passion and drive could align with Celtic’s competitive standards.
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5. Martin O’Neill (Continuing Longer Term)
Martin O’Neill’s return as interim manager has sparked both nostalgia and curiosity. The Northern Irishman remains one of Celtic’s most successful managers, having led the club to seven major honours and the 2003 UEFA Cup Final during his first spell.
At 73, O’Neill has stressed that his current position is temporary. However, if results under his short-term stewardship are positive, Celtic’s hierarchy may consider extending his second tenure.
O’Neill brings stability, authority, and an intrinsic understanding of the club’s values. While unlikely to represent a long-term rebuild option, he offers immediate continuity and proven leadership.
Callum McFadden 