Celtic confirm Martin O’Neill as permanent manager

Celtic have appointed Martin O’Neill as their permanent manager. O’Neill signed a one-year contract with an option to extend for a further year. Robbie Keane was also considered, but Celtic abandoned pursuit of the former Ferencvaros manager after fan protests over his links to Israel. O’Neill served as interim manager twice last season. He replaced Brendan Rodgers in October and stepped in for Wilfried Nancy in January. He guided Celtic to a fifth consecutive Scottish Premiership title by beating Hearts. The appointment gives O’Neill his fourth league triumph as manager. Celtic also secured the Scottish Cup with a 3–1 win over Dunfermline Athletic at Hampden Park. The victory completed a domestic double for the club. The 74‑year‑old O’Neill has previously won the domestic double twice as Celtic boss and has added nine major titles to the club’s tally. “It is once again a great privilege for me to continue as Celtic manager,” O’Neill said, thanking the board, players and supporters. He warned the club must not rest on past success and will aim to deliver again next season. Celtic must strengthen their squad this summer, focusing on centre‑back and attacking options to improve competitiveness in Europe.