Dozens of Celtic supporters’ clubs have jointly condemned the prospect of Robbie Keane becoming the club’s next manager, citing his recent stint as head coach of Maccabi Tel Aviv as grounds for opposition.
Speculation has intensified in recent days linking the 45-year-old Republic of Ireland record goalscorer with the Parkhead vacancy, with reports indicating he has held discussions with principal shareholder Dermot Desmond. Keane arrives with a managerial pedigree that includes league titles in both Israel and Hungary.
However, his decision to remain in charge of the Israeli side following the outbreak of conflict in Gaza sparked significant backlash in Ireland and has now galvanised a segment of the Celtic support against his candidacy.
A statement released by the collective “Celtic Fans for the Liberation of Palestine” argued that Keane’s appointment “would be deeply divisive among the support.” The North Curve Celtic account on X has since published a list of 67 affiliated groups endorsing the position, including the Green Brigade ultras, established podcasts, and long-standing organisations such as the Glasgow University Celtic Supporters Club and Craigneuk Tommy Gemmell CSC.
“For us, Robbie Keane’s decision to manage Maccabi Tel Aviv during the genocide in Gaza is impossible to ignore,” the statement reads. “Celtic was founded by a community shaped by the legacy of genocide, displacement and famine. Our club’s roots lie in solidarity with those who suffered injustice and oppression. We cannot forget where we came from, nor turn our backs on those facing genocide today.”