Celtic next manager: Martin O’Neill becomes new favourite after Jens Berthel Askou appointment

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(Credit: Manh Tung, Breaking Media) Fri 22 May 2026 8:00, UK Celtic are searching for their next manager, but could end up sticking with Martin O’Neill for the 2026-27 campaign.The 74-year-old came back to the club in January after the sacking of Wilfried Nancy and delivered yet another Scottish Premiership title on the weekend.The Hoops have been searching for a long-term replacement, but many of their linked managers are either no longer available or are now unrealistic.As a result, O’Neill is now the favourite to be in charge for the 2026-27 campaign at 15/8 odds after the odds were recently slashed.O’Neill has been expected to depart Parkhead after the Scottish Cup final on Saturday, but could now be in line for a shock long-term Celtic appointment. 👔 Celtic Manager News 👔 Get the inside track on the Parkhead dugout with real-time updates on shortlisted candidates, live betting market shifts, and key boardroom decisions. VISIT THE MANAGER HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Martin O’Neill looks increasingly likely to take on permanent Celtic jobAs it stands, Celtic are currently running out of options.Jens Berthel Askou took over at Toulouse on Thursday, ending any hopes of a Parkhead appointment.Credit: ImagoElsewhere, Steve Clarke looks likely to sign a new contract with Scotland, while Craig Bellamy is being eyed by Burnley.Therefore, options are now low, with Robbie Keane and Roberto Martinez perhaps the only other majorly linked managers still available.A Keane appointment would no doubt be controversial within the fanbase, whereas Martinez could be out of reach if Portugal have a good World Cup this summer.As a result, a permanent O’Neill appointment looks increasingly likely, and this is now reflected with the bookies.Would O’Neill accept Celtic manager job for 2026-27 campaign?Former Aberdeen chief executive Keith Wyness exclusively told Football Insider that O’Neill will feel an urge to remain as Celtic manager after winning the Scottish Premiership title.If offered the position, Wyness believes that it would be hard for the 74-year-old to turn down.O’Neill has been fundamental to turning around Celtic’s fortunes, with the club in a complete mess upon his arrival in January.Yet, despite these challenges, he overcame the odds to ensure Celtic lifted a fifth successive Scottish Premiership title, and their 56th top-flight trophy overall.However, it remains to be seen if O’Neill will be seen as the best man to lead the Hoops forward for the 2026-27 campaign, or if the board opt to go for another candidate.