When Celtic turned to Martin O’Neill to steady the club during a period of uncertainty, few could have predicted how quickly and convincingly he would transform the team. In just one month back in charge, O’Neill has restored clarity, confidence and direction.
Supporters have long associated him with one of the club’s most successful modern eras, and his return has reignited that sense of identity and purpose throughout the club.
Celtic’s form under O’Neill has been flawless on the domestic stage. The team has won all five domestic matches during his short spell, each performance showing growing cohesion and belief. The standout result came in the 3–1 win over Rangers to reach the League Cup final. It was a performance filled with energy, discipline and determination, reflecting the standards O’Neill set during his first tenure.
He has also overseen an impressive Europa League victory away to Feyenoord. For a team that has struggled in Europe in recent seasons, the win in Rotterdam demonstrated improved organisation and composure. O’Neill’s experience in European competition has clearly had an immediate effect.
A key factor in this resurgence has been O’Neill’s decision to work closely with Shaun Maloney as assistant manager and Mark Fotheringham as first team coach. Both bring a deep understanding of Celtic along with significant coaching and managerial experience across Europe and within the UK.
Maloney, a product of Celtic’s academy and a former player under O’Neill, has developed an impressive coaching reputation through roles with Belgium’s national team and clubs in Scotland and England. His technical insight, modern coaching methods and natural connection with Celtic have helped bridge O’Neill’s authoritative leadership style with the demands of today’s game.
Fotheringham adds further depth and versatility to the coaching setup. His experiences in Germany and the English Football League have shaped a dynamic approach to training and player development. His familiarity with different football cultures has strengthened Celtic’s ability to adapt in both domestic and European matches.
Together, Maloney and Fotheringham complement O’Neill’s presence with fresh ideas and tactical detail, creating a balanced and highly effective coaching team.
Perhaps O’Neill’s greatest achievement so far has been restoring Celtic’s identity. His teams have always been defined by resilience, aggression and collective spirit. Those qualities are now returning. Players such as Reo Hatate and Arne Engels who had been struggling for form look more assured, while others who were on the fringes such as Yang are contributing with renewed enthusiasm. The squad appears more united and better prepared for the challenges ahead.
The supporters have also reconnected with the team. O’Neill’s return brought a sense of nostalgia, but it is the visible improvement on the pitch that has turned that emotion into belief. Celtic once again feel like a team filled with purpose.
The question now facing the club is whether O’Neill’s time in charge should be extended. Performances have improved dramatically, momentum is building and Celtic could go top of the Scottish Premiership if they defeat Dundee at home on Wednesday evening.
A League Cup final awaits on 14 December, a match in which Celtic will enter as heavy favourites. With confidence surging and results following, there is a strong case to be made that O’Neill’s influence is only beginning to bear fruit.
The club’s decision on the next manager could significantly impact the rest of the season, especially since prospective manager Wilfried Nancy hasn’t yet managed outside MLS.
With that in mind, O’Neill and his staff have undoubtedly restored stability and with results and performances continuing to improve under their leadership, there’s a compelling argument for continuing with Martin O’Neill and his staff for the medium term.
Callum McFadden 