“I’d Need Time to Build Something” Robbie Keane’s Major Condition for Taking the Celtic Job Revealed
Robbie Keane is reportedly prepared to seriously consider the Celtic manager’s role this summer but only if the club are willing to hand him the stability and long-term backing needed to create a lasting project at Parkhead.
The current Ferencvárosi TC boss has emerged as one of the strongest names linked with the position ahead of what is expected to be a huge managerial decision for Celtic F.C. in the coming months.
According to former Scotland international Don Hutchison, Keane could become the leading favourite to replace Martin O’Neill on a permanent basis once the season ends.
Keane is no stranger to Celtic supporters after his memorable loan spell from Tottenham Hotspur F.C. back in 2010, and his growing reputation in management has only increased speculation surrounding a possible return to Glasgow.
The situation at Parkhead has been turbulent this season following the failed reign of Wilfried Nancy, whose difficult eight-game spell forced the club to turn back to O’Neill in an attempt to steady the campaign.
Despite guiding Celtic back into contention for silverware, O’Neill is still widely expected to leave at the end of the season, regardless of whether he delivers another Premiership title and Scottish Cup triumph.
With just a handful of matches remaining, attention has already shifted toward who will lead the club into a new era and Keane’s name continues to gather momentum.
The Irishman recently admitted he would consider leaving Hungary for the right opportunity, although he insisted his immediate focus remains on chasing a league and cup double with Ferencvaros.
Speaking about Keane’s future, Hutchison believes the former striker would only return to Scotland if Celtic offered him enough time to properly shape the club in his own vision.
He explained:
> “I’ve watched his side a lot in Europe and they’ve impressed me. His teams play really good football.
> “I think Robbie will want to come back to a big club eventually, but if he does, he’ll want security and time. He’ll want a proper contract so he can build something over a number of years.”
Hutchison also suggested Keane could become Celtic’s first-choice option if O’Neill officially steps aside this summer.
> “If Martin leaves, I honestly think Robbie Keane would be a brilliant appointment. He could easily become the leading candidate for the job.”
The pundit also admitted he struggles to see O’Neill staying beyond this season, even if he manages to guide Celtic to another league title.
Celtic remain locked in a tense title race with Heart of Midlothian F.C., with only three league matches left to play.
Hutchison added:
> “It would be an incredible story if Martin won the title again, and I think he’d probably walk away on a high.
> “But if Hearts managed to win the league, it could actually be good for Scottish football. It might force both Celtic and Rangers to raise their standards again instead of believing the title race only belongs to them.”
