Martin O’Neill confirmed as Celtic manager after fans reject Robbie Keane

Martin O’Neill, 74, is set to continue his role as Celtic manager next season, having turned the club around during two caretaker spells last season. Under his leadership, Celtic won both the Scottish Championship and the Scottish Cup.

His return, first to stabilize the team after the departure of Brendan Rodgers in October, then to replace Wilfried Nancy who had only managed eight games, was decisive. The season concluded with a crucial home victory over Hearts on the final day, boosting O'Neill's popularity with supporters and management.

Another candidate, Robbie Keane, ex-Celtic striker and top scorer in Ireland's history, was also tipped to take charge. However, this prospect sparked an outcry among a large section of fans.

Keane, who had a successful loan spell at Celtic Park in 2010, has been criticized for his recent role in charge of Maccabi Tel Aviv. His decision to stay in Israel during the Gaza conflict was the subject of strong condemnation in Ireland and alienated a significant segment of the Celtic public.

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The North Curve Celtic supporters group published a statement on the social network X, expressing their opposition to this recruitment. Several influential groups such as Bhoys Celtic and the Green Brigade have joined this position. In this message, they recall that “Celtic supporters have a long and proud tradition of solidarity with the Palestinian people. »

They denounce the fact that Robbie Keane chose to manage an Israeli club “while less than 40 miles away, the same country was using weapons of mass destruction against defenseless populations. »

They also point out that “Celtic was founded by a community scarred by genocide, displacement and famine. Our club is rooted in solidarity with those who experience injustice and oppression. We cannot forget our origins or turn our backs on those who are facing genocide today. »

At a time when the club requires unity and collective ambition, this appointment would have caused a deep division among supporters. The Board of Directors is therefore strongly encouraged to listen to these concerns and review its decision.

Since the start of the conflict triggered by Hamas attacks in October 2023, more than 70,000 people have lost their lives in Palestine.