Celtic Weigh Move for Robbie Keane After Brendan Rodgers Exit
Celtic are once again facing a period of transition following the departure of Brendan Rodgers, whose resignation this week ended his second spell at Parkhead. The Northern Irishman leaves behind a club searching for direction after a sluggish start to the season and increasing tension behind the scenes.
Rodgers’ Exit Sparks Major Fallout
Rodgers’ resignation followed a 3-1 defeat to league leaders Hearts, a result that left Celtic trailing by eight points in the Scottish Premiership. For many, that loss felt like the final straw. The pressure from supporters, coupled with the team’s lack of consistency, made his position increasingly untenable.
Within hours of his exit, Celtic’s principal shareholder, Dermot Desmond, issued a detailed open letter addressing the circumstances surrounding Rodgers’ decision. Desmond accused the manager of “misleading” both fans and the club over contract negotiations and transfer planning. He claimed Rodgers had falsely implied that no extension was offered, clarifying that Celtic had, in fact, sought to renew his contract months earlier.
Desmond’s letter went further, describing Rodgers’ recent conduct as “divisive” and “self-serving,” words that underlined the breakdown in relations at the club. According to sources close to Celtic Park, tensions had been simmering for months, with communication between the manager and the board becoming increasingly strained.
For now, Martin O’Neill and Shaun Maloney have been appointed on a temporary basis to oversee the team. Their brief is to stabilise the squad and prevent further decline while the search for a new permanent manager gathers pace.
Keane Among Candidates Considered by Celtic
Celtic’s hierarchy are assessing several potential successors, and reports suggest former Liverpool and Tottenham striker Robbie Keane has emerged as a serious contender. The Telegraph has claimed that Keane has been shortlisted and could be approached in the coming weeks.
Keane’s growing reputation in management has not gone unnoticed. His first full managerial role came in June 2023 with Israeli side Maccabi Tel Aviv, where his attacking philosophy earned widespread praise. After leaving the club in mid-2024, he joined Hungarian champions Ferencvaros in January 2025, where he quickly impressed.
Under Keane’s guidance, Ferencvaros secured a seventh consecutive Hungarian league title and progressed to the Europa League knockout rounds — a notable achievement that has drawn attention from across Europe.
Strong Celtic and Liverpool Connections
For Celtic, Keane’s connection to the club could make him a particularly attractive choice. He spent a brief but productive spell on loan at Parkhead in 2010, scoring 16 goals in 19 appearances. His professionalism and passion during that time made him a fan favourite, and his return as manager would undoubtedly capture the imagination of supporters.
There is also a symbolic thread linking Keane to both Celtic and Liverpool — two clubs that have shared values of history, identity, and fervent fan bases. His experience under elite coaches, combined with his international pedigree as Republic of Ireland’s all-time leading scorer, could give him the authority to handle the expectations that come with managing a club of Celtic’s stature.
Desmond Faces Key Decision for Club’s Future
Dermot Desmond and the Celtic board now face a crucial decision in defining the next era of the club. Whether they opt for the familiarity of a figure like Keane or pursue a more seasoned candidate, the priority will be to restore unity and momentum after a turbulent few months.
Keane, at 45, represents both ambition and a gamble — an up-and-coming coach with a deep understanding of Celtic’s culture, yet still early in his managerial journey. As the club looks to regain its dominance domestically and in Europe, that blend of passion and potential could prove decisive.
