Celtic fan groups unite against potential Robbie Keane appointment
6 verified5 unconfirmed
Dozens of Celtic supporters clubs have signed a statement opposing the potential appointment of Robbie Keane as manager, citing his previous role with Maccabi Tel Aviv during the conflict in Gaza. The Republic of Ireland record goalscorer, who had a loan spell at Celtic Park in 2010, is among the favourites to take charge amid reports of talks with principal shareholder Dermot Desmond. The opposition stems from Keane’s decision to remain with Maccabi Tel Aviv after the October 2023 attacks and subsequent Israeli military operations in Gaza. A statement released by a group called Celtic Fans for the Liberation of Palestine described the potential appointment as “deeply divisive” and urged the Celtic board to reconsider. The North Curve Celtic account on social media published a list of 67 groups endorsing the statement, including ultras, podcasts, and longstanding supporters clubs. Keane resigned from Maccabi in summer 2024 after winning a league and cup double, later explaining he stayed out of a sense of responsibility to staff and players.
What’s verified
Multiple Celtic supporters clubs signed a statement opposing Robbie Keane’s potential appointment as manager over his previous role with Maccabi Tel Aviv.
The statement originated from a group called Celtic Fans for the Liberation of Palestine and was endorsed by 67 groups on a list published by North Curve Celtic.
The list includes the Green Brigade, several podcasts, Glasgow University Celtic Supporters Club, and Craigneuk Tommy Gemmell CSC.
Keane’s decision to stay in Israel after the Gaza conflict began drew criticism in his homeland and among Celtic fans.
Keane was appointed by Maccabi Tel Aviv in June 2023 and resigned in summer 2024 after winning a league and cup double.
Keane cited a duty of care to his staff as a reason for staying through the season.
Not yet confirmed
One source reported that graffiti and banners opposing Keane have appeared outside Celtic Park in recent days.
One source mentioned that Keane later moved to Ferencvaros in January 2025.
One source stated that interim manager Martin O’Neill also won the Scottish Cup last season.
One source cited more than 70,000 deaths in Gaza; the other source did not provide any death toll figure.
It remains unclear whether formal talks between Keane and the club have progressed beyond initial discussions.
Key figures
Robbie Keane, former player and potential managerial candidate
Dermot Desmond, principal shareholder of Celtic
Martin O’Neill, interim manager of Celtic
Sources: BBC News, Sky Sports
