Scottish Premiership Manager in Running to Be Next Permanent Celtic Boss After Martin O’Neill Exit

Celtic FC is actively seeking a permanent manager following Martin O’Neill’s departure from his interim role at the end of the 2025-26 season. The club, currently second in the Scottish Premiership, six points behind leaders Hearts and level with Rangers after 20 matches, has endured a turbulent campaign marked by multiple managerial changes[1][2].

O’Neill, 73, returned for a third spell on January 5, 2026, after Wilfried Nancy’s sacking just 33 days into his tenure. Nancy lost six of eight games, including a 3-1 Old Firm derby defeat to Rangers and a League Cup final loss to St. Mirren, prompting fan protests outside Parkhead[1][2][3]. This followed O’Neill’s earlier interim stint after Brendan Rodgers’ dismissal in October 2025, where he won seven of eight matches, including all five Premiership games and a European win over Feyenoord[1][5].

Despite O’Neill’s successes—previously winning three league titles (2000-01, 2001-02, 2003-04) and remaining unbeaten domestically in his recent spell—Celtic has suffered six Premiership defeats this season, the most since 2012-13[1][4]. O’Neill expressed honor in returning, vowing to fight for success with assistants Shaun Maloney, Mark Fotheringham, Stephen McManus, and others, emphasizing unity amid deeper squad issues like insufficient quality signings[2][4].

With O’Neill now exiting, attention turns to a **Scottish Premiership manager** reportedly in the running for the permanent job. Sources indicate Celtic’s board is prioritizing stability to challenge Hearts and Rangers, with upcoming fixtures like home against Dundee United critical. Club statements highlight the need for focus and a fight-back, as deeper problems persist beyond recent coaches[3][4]. The search underscores Celtic’s precarious title defense in a fiercely competitive league.

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