Celtic F.C. have confirmed a major restructuring of their backroom staff, appointing club legends Martin O’Neill and Shaun Maloney to interim coaching roles as the club seeks to stabilise after a turbulent start to the season.
The announcement was made official in a press release earlier today, revealing sweeping changes to the club’s technical setup. The move follows Celtic’s inconsistent domestic form and early European exit, which has put significant pressure on the first-team management and senior hierarchy.
🧠 The New Setup
In an unexpected yet nostalgic move, Celtic have turned to former manager Martin O’Neill to bring experience and leadership back to the coaching structure. O’Neill, who guided the Hoops to multiple league titles and the 2003 UEFA Cup Final during his previous spell, will act as Senior Football Advisor until the end of the season.
Joining him is Shaun Maloney, a former Celtic midfielder and one-time Belgium assistant coach under Roberto Martínez. Maloney returns to Celtic Park as Interim Assistant Coach, working closely with the current first-team setup to reinvigorate the squad’s tactical approach.
According to The Scottish Sun, Celtic’s board believe the appointments will “restore unity and football identity” within the club following weeks of internal review and mounting fan pressure.
⚽ Why the Shake-Up Now?
Celtic’s campaign has been marked by inconsistency dropping points in key Premiership matches and failing to impress in Europe. The club currently trails arch-rivals Rangers by five points and has struggled with injuries and defensive instability.
Sources suggest the changes are part of a wider plan to reinforce support for the current managerial team while evaluating the long-term structure of Celtic’s football department.
🗣 Official Club Statement
“Celtic Football Club can confirm a number of interim appointments within the first-team coaching structure. Martin O’Neill returns in an advisory capacity, while Shaun Maloney joins as part of the senior coaching staff. Both bring invaluable experience and deep understanding of Celtic’s values and ambition.”
🏟 Fan and Player Reactions
The news has been met with widespread enthusiasm from Celtic fans, many of whom still hold O’Neill in legendary regard.
“O’Neill back at Celtic Park feels right we needed leadership and Celtic spirit again,” one supporter wrote on X.
Players are also said to have responded positively to the arrivals, with senior figures such as Callum McGregor and James Forrest reportedly welcoming the chance to work under two respected figures with deep club roots.
🔮 What’s Next for Celtic?
O’Neill and Maloney will be in attendance at Celtic Park this weekend when the club faces Hearts in the Premiership. Their first task will be improving morale and sharpening tactical discipline as Celtic aim to close the gap at the top of the table.
While the appointments are currently described as interim, sources inside the club have hinted that a permanent restructure could follow at the end of the season depending on results and performance.
For Celtic, this backroom revamp signals a strong commitment to reconnecting with the club’s identity and ensuring a renewed focus on success both domestically and in Europe.
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