Martin O’Neill Named Permanent Celtic Manager After Trophy-Winning Interim Spell

Posted : 11 June 2026

Martin O’Neill has been appointed Celtic’s permanent manager at the age of 74 after guiding the club to a domestic double during a successful interim spell last season.

The experienced coach has signed a one-year contract, with the option to extend for a further year, marking another chapter in his long association with the Scottish champions. O’Neill had previously managed Celtic between 2000 and 2005, enjoying a highly successful first stint at the club.

He initially returned to Celtic in October following Brendan Rodgers’ departure and quickly made an impact, winning all eight of his domestic matches during a brief spell in charge. Although he stepped aside after Wilfried Nancy was appointed on a permanent basis, O’Neill was brought back again in January after Nancy’s short and difficult tenure ended.

O’Neill went on to lead Celtic through a dramatic title race, with the club edging Hearts on the final day of the season to secure a fifth consecutive league crown. The campaign featured several pivotal moments, including a controversial penalty decision in a crucial win over Motherwell late in the season.

Celtic then completed a league and cup double by defeating Hearts in a decisive final-day encounter in Glasgow before going on to lift the Scottish Cup with a 3-1 victory over Dunfermline, securing O’Neill’s ninth trophy as Celtic manager.

Speaking after his permanent appointment, O’Neill described it as a privilege to continue in charge and said last season’s success had strengthened his desire to achieve further success with the club. He emphasised the importance of building on recent achievements and delivering more memorable moments for supporters.

Club principal shareholder Dermot Desmond expressed strong support for the decision, praising O’Neill’s experience and winning mentality. He confirmed that Celtic would back the manager in the transfer market as they prepare for both domestic competition and European challenges.

Desmond also highlighted O’Neill’s deep understanding of the club’s expectations and reiterated confidence in his ability to lead Celtic forward, despite ongoing scrutiny over the club’s spending strategy in recent seasons.

Martin O’Neill Named Permanent Celtic Manager After Trophy-Winning Interim Spell

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