Martin O’Neill Returns as Celtic Manager Until Season’s End

Celtic have confirmed the return of Martin O’Neill as manager, with the experienced coach taking charge of the first team until the conclusion of the current season.

O’Neill, one of the most iconic figures in the club’s modern history, will be supported by a familiar and experienced backroom team. Shaun Maloney and Mark Fotheringham have been appointed as assistant managers, while Stephen McManus will join the existing coaching staff of Gavin Strachan, Stevie Woods and Greg Wallace to oversee first-team operations.

The appointment follows the departure of Wilfried Nancy, whose spell in charge came to an end after a challenging run of results. While results ultimately failed to meet expectations, Celtic’s hierarchy were keen to acknowledge Nancy’s professionalism and character throughout his time at the club.

Speaking after his return was confirmed, O’Neill expressed both pride and enthusiasm at being asked to lead Celtic once again.

He said he felt honoured to be entrusted with the role and was eager to reconnect with the players and begin work immediately. O’Neill also paid tribute to his predecessor, stressing that everyone at the club had hoped things would unfold differently under Nancy and wishing him success in the future.

O’Neill made it clear that his focus is now firmly on restoring momentum and results, while calling for unity from supporters during a crucial period of the campaign. He acknowledged the challenges ahead but insisted there remains plenty to fight for, pledging that both he and his coaching staff will give everything to maximise the team’s potential between now and the end of the season.

Celtic’s interim chairman, Brian Wilson, described Nancy’s exit as a disappointment, particularly on a personal level, and extended best wishes to the former manager and his family. However, Wilson said the decision to bring O’Neill back provides clarity and direction at a vital time.

He highlighted O’Neill’s standing within the game, his deep connection to Celtic, and the confidence his presence brings to players, staff and supporters alike. Wilson added that while O’Neill’s appointment does not instantly solve every issue the club faces, it offers a strong platform from which to begin a recovery, urging fans to unite behind the team and help create a positive atmosphere as Celtic look to reignite their season.

Chief executive Michael Nicholson echoed those sentiments, stating that the club is delighted to welcome O’Neill back and fully committed to supporting him and his staff throughout the remainder of the campaign.

Nicholson revealed that discussions with O’Neill made it clear the manager is energised by the challenge and deeply motivated to help guide Celtic back to success. He also reiterated the club’s respect for Wilfried Nancy, noting that while the appointment did not unfold as hoped, the former manager leaves with Celtic’s best wishes for the future.

Principal shareholder Dermot Desmond also offered his backing for O’Neill’s return, describing the appointment as a move rooted in trust and familiarity. Desmond said the club knows exactly what O’Neill brings in terms of leadership, drive and clarity, and hopes he can once again provide the direction required during a demanding stage of the season.

Desmond reflected on Nancy’s appointment by acknowledging that the club believed it could embark on a successful chapter under his management. While that ambition ultimately fell short, Desmond stressed that both the club and Nancy are disappointed by the outcome and reiterated his personal best wishes to the Frenchman as he moves on to the next stage of his career.

With O’Neill back in the dugout, Celtic now turn their attention to stabilising performances and restoring belief, as the club looks to salvage the season and reassert itself during the decisive months ahead.