There is a feeling around Celtic right now that something big is coming. Not just another signing, not just another tactical tweak, but a decision that could shape the club for years.
The season has been anything but smooth. From managerial changes to inconsistent performances, it has felt like Celtic have been trying to steady themselves while still chasing success. And with so many players expected to leave, and others still trying to prove their place, the sense of a major rebuild is impossible to ignore.
That is why all eyes keep drifting back to one question.
Who takes control next?
For now, Martin O’Neill remains in charge, but only until May. His return brought stability at a crucial moment, but it was never presented as a long term solution. Behind the scenes, the search for the next permanent manager has already taken centre stage.
Names have been thrown around for weeks. Some expected, some surprising, and some that just will not go away.
Jens Berthel Askou has quietly built a strong case with the work he has done at Motherwell. His style, his presence, and the way his teams play have caught attention well beyond his own club. For many, he represents a fresh start.
But then there is another name that keeps resurfacing. One that carries a different kind of weight.
A familiar face.
A former Celtic player who knows the club, understands the expectations, and has built a growing reputation in management.
Robbie Keane.
The former Wolves, Leeds United and Tottenham forward is now firmly in the frame, and according to those close to the situation, he is not just being considered. He may actually be the leading option from within.
It is the kind of development that changes the tone of the conversation.
Because suddenly, this is no longer just speculation. It feels like something is building.
Speaking on Go Radio, former Celtic forward Andy Walker and journalist Mark Guidi opened up on the situation, offering insight into how the decision could unfold and where the club’s thinking might be heading.
Walker made it clear where his preference lies, pointing towards the work being done just up the road.
“My favourite would be, you wouldn’t need to look too far, just up the road at Motherwell. I think Jens Berthel Askou has been absolutely terrific this season. The style of play, what he’s done with Motherwell, and for Motherwell. I think even just the way he conducts himself.
“I think it’s a huge step, of course, to go to Celtic. Especially this summer, because it is nowhere near any sort of settled team, this is going to be a huge turnaround. So many players are there on loan. So many players are going to leave. So many want to be away and maybe should have been sold earlier for a maximum profit.
“I think we would all agree, it’s maybe that there’s maybe been a bit of mismanagement there. I’d go for the Motherwell man. Of course, it’s up to Dermot Desmond, and they can do all the homework they want on any individual. If Dermot Desmond doesn’t like him, then he’ll not get the job.”
But while Askou continues to impress, Guidi hinted that the momentum might be shifting elsewhere.
Ferencvaros’ Irish coach Robbie Keane is pictured before the UEFA Europa League last 16 second leg football match between SC Braga and Ferencvaros at Municipal stadium of Braga on March 18, 2026. (Photo by Miguel RIOPA / AFP via Getty Images)
“I hear Andy and there’s not a lot wrong with Askou. Robbie Keane is most certainly in the frame. I think he may well be the favoured candidate from within. However, there’s a couple of reasons why if I’m Celtic and if I’m Dermot Desmond, I would just offer the job to Martin O’Neill just now. Whether they win the league or not.
“You’ve got somebody in the building. There’s a massive rebuild to go. So Martin O’Neill and his staff have had a good look at the squad. They know who’s up to it and who’s not. Martin O’Neill has the total respect of the Celtic supporters, and the way the relationship is just now with the supporters in the hierarchy, I don’t see there being a quick fix to that.
“I think this is going to rumble and rumble and rumble. It may never be sorted, it could take years for this to be sorted out, for full harmony to be restored. So therefore, for a young manager whether it’s Askou or whether it’s Keane going in, and they’re going in when the club is still at loggerheads. The hierarchy and the supporters. It’s no way for a new manager to go into the club. I’m not saying lay all that at Martin O’Neill’s door, but you know what I’m saying? He’s experienced, he gets it.”
And that is where the tension really sits.
Celtic are not just choosing a manager. They are choosing direction. Experience versus potential. Stability versus a fresh start.
Keane offers familiarity and ambition. Askou offers promise and a new identity. O’Neill offers control and understanding in a difficult moment.
But in the end, there is one voice that matters more than any other.
Dermot Desmond.
Because as Walker pointed out, no matter how much analysis is done, no matter how many names are discussed, the final call will come from the top.
And until that decision is made, the uncertainty will continue to hang over Parkhead.
Quietly building.
Waiting to explode into something much bigger.
