Former Celtic captain Jackie McNamara has expressed his support for Martin O’Neill to continue as manager beyond the current season, a significant endorsement amid the turmoil of this campaign. While at Hampden for the launch of next month’s Refugee World Cup, McNamara stated that he would be “all for it” if his former manager chose to remain in his role.
Celtic Icon Supports O’Neill’s Continued Leadership
During the tumultuous 2025–26 season, Celtic experienced the departure of three managers—Brendan Rodgers, Wilfried Nancy, and O’Neill, who stepped in twice—yet the team still managed to perform. At 74, O’Neill is anticipated to meet with Dermot Desmond, the club’s largest shareholder, in the days ahead to discuss the possibility of continuing his managerial position next season. McNamara contended that even if O’Neill preferred a role in recruitment or another administrative capacity, his presence at the club would still be beneficial.
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He emphasized that the discord between supporters and the board that characterized the early part of the season has eased as attention shifted back to football and winning. O’Neill himself mentioned he might be interested in an ambassadorial role, although he acknowledged that the board may seek a younger candidate given the intensity of the upcoming Champions League play-off in August. According to McNamara, as reported by The Scotsman, it is crucial for whoever leads Celtic next to secure solid commitments regarding transfer spending and the hiring of a sporting director.
“If he wants to stay another year, I’d be thrilled. Even if he opted to take on a role upstairs, whether on the board or in recruitment, his importance has been evident. The noise between fans and management has diminished in recent months because the focus is back on the team and winning,” McNamara stated. “Whoever comes in will need to understand what is necessary to prepare for the Champions League. The recruitment process needs clarity and a sporting director or head of recruitment must be appointed swiftly. There’s a lot of change on the horizon for this summer.”
“The key point is that Celtic has claimed the league title, providing a chance to qualify for the Champions League, which will attract players,” he added.
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Considerations for Celtic Moving Forward
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – MAY 16: Martin O’Neill, Interim Manager of Celtic, lifts the William Hill Premiership trophy alongside Celtic players after their victory against Heart of Midlothian at Celtic Park on May 16, 2026, in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Celtic’s recruitment team has begun identifying targets in various markets, but major financial commitments are likely to be postponed until a permanent manager is appointed. This delay poses a significant challenge; Celtic can’t afford another summer of uncertainty. As the midfield became more defensive during the title run-in, matches grew chaotic and physical rather than controlled, exposing structural weaknesses that could be exploited at the Champions League level.
The club should prioritize appointing a sporting director independently of managerial decisions. Winning two trophies has bolstered the case for O’Neill’s retention, and there are emerging calls for a statue in his honor; however, sentiment cannot dictate strategy. If O’Neill commits to another year as a transitional figure while a long-term successor is sought, Celtic could maintain stability without sacrificing ambition.
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Figures such as Craig Bellamy and Roberto Martinez have been mentioned in potential discussions, and the club should initiate these conversations concurrently rather than waiting for another managerial appointment to falter. Celtic’s European income hinges on decisions made this month, and each week of indecision represents a cost to the club.