Zero Kieran McKenna Celtic FC Talks as Craig Bellamy Commits to Welsh National Team

Soccer Managerial Updates

Ipswich's manager and Wales head coach have been linked with the Celtic manager position

The Championship club's their manager states he has had "zero conversations" with the Glasgow club about their coaching position, while Wales national team manager the former striker is committed to seeing out his squad's World Cup campaign.

Each are being considered with the manager's job at the Scottish champions following Brendan Rodgers' departure on the start of the week.

The Manager's Stance on The Scottish Club

McKenna described Celtic as "a really big football club" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.

The 39-year-old took charge of Portman Road in 2021 and led them to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they won just four games last campaign as they were demoted back to the Championship and they currently sit twelfth place in the Championship.

"I have not had such discussions," the London-born ex- Northern Ireland young player said when asked about being on Celtic's shortlist.

"It's not something I have given any thought to, or where any portion of my focus is this week.

"I have a unique job here at a remarkable team. And we're at a really important phase of the season. Everything external hasn't touched my awareness."

Background and Agreement Details

Reports indicate that McKenna would be open to speaking to Celtic given his childhood support.

"Growing up, we all have our affinities," he said when asked about these. "It's unlikely all people has to go around and announce what they were, but naturally it's a really big sports organization."

The coach signed a fresh four-year contract in 2024 and was asked about his alleged buyout clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he responded. "I'm unaware what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you anyway!

"I tackle this role like I'll be Town's coach indefinitely. I understand that's not always going to be the case, but I will consistently do my best as long as I am here."

Bellamy's Situation

Bellamy played for the Hoops on loan from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Wales forward is inclined to finish the current global tournament campaign, a position that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from assuming the Glasgow position.

The Welsh squad are currently in third place in their qualifying group behind group toppers Belgium and runners-up Macedonia.

Victories over Liechtenstein and their rivals in November would book their place in the final qualifying round, but they are all but assured of reaching that stage, thanks to a successful European competition performance, should they fail to finish as Group J runners-up.

Given his current position, Bellamy, whose agreement concludes after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until after the play-offs at the minimum.

Important Points

  • Ipswich's manager denies having conversations with the Scottish club
  • The coach emphasizes commitment to his current club
  • Wales' manager focused on World Cup campaign
  • Each coaches linked with Celtic vacancy
  • The Welsh coach unavailable until post tournament qualifiers
Steven Harris
Steven Harris

A seasoned gambling analyst with over a decade of experience in casino reviews and strategy development.