Key facts
- Martin O'Neill, 74, has been appointed permanent manager of Celtic.
- He signed an initial one-year contract with an option for a second year.
- O'Neill led Celtic to a Scottish league-and-cup double in the 2025-26 season.
- He had two interim spells as manager during the turbulent season.
- O'Neill previously managed Celtic from 2000-2005, winning seven major honors.
Celtic has appointed Martin O'Neill as their permanent manager, offering the 74-year-old a one-year contract with an option for a further year. This decision follows O'Neill's successful interim spells during the 2025-26 season, during which he guided the Glasgow club to a Scottish league-and-cup double.
O'Neill returned to Celtic twice last season, first after Brendan Rodgers' resignation and then following the brief tenure of Wilfried Nancy. His second interim period saw Celtic win their final nine matches across competitions, snatching the Scottish Premiership title on the final day from Heart of Midlothian and securing the Scottish Cup. This success has earned him a permanent role, continuing his legacy at the club where he previously managed from 2000 to 2005, winning seven major trophies.
The club's major shareholder, Dermot Desmond, was involved in discussions, which also included former player Robbie Keane. However, fan groups had voiced opposition to Keane's potential appointment due to his past association with Maccabi Tel Aviv. O'Neill is expected to be joined by his current backroom team, including assistant Shaun Maloney.