A growing section of the Celtic support has publicly opposed the potential appointment of Robbie Keane as the club’s next manager, with dozens of supporters’ groups backing a statement calling on the board to reconsider.
Keane has emerged as one of the leading candidates for the role amid reports of ongoing discussions with principal shareholder Dermot Desmond.
However, his previous managerial spell at Maccabi Tel Aviv has become a major point of contention among sections of the fanbase.
The former Republic of Ireland captain remains a popular figure for many supporters after a successful loan spell at Celtic in 2010, while his managerial resume includes league titles in both Israel and Hungary.
Yet criticism surrounding his decision to remain in Israel after the conflict in Gaza began has intensified opposition to his possible return to Celtic Park.
In recent days, banners and graffiti expressing opposition to Keane’s appointment have appeared around Celtic Park.
A statement initially circulated online by a group identifying itself as Celtic Fans for the Liberation of Palestine has now received broader support.
The North Curve Celtic account on X published a list of 67 supporters’ groups and organisations that have reportedly endorsed the statement.
Among them are prominent fan groups, ultras organisations, podcasts and long-established supporters’ clubs.
The statement outlines the concerns of supporters regarding Keane’s previous role at Maccabi Tel Aviv.
“Celtic supporters have a long and proud history of solidarity with the Palestinian people.
“For us, Robbie Keane’s decision to manage Maccabi Tel Aviv during the genocide in Gaza is impossible to ignore.
“To choose to manage a club in Israel while, less than 40 miles away, the same country was using indiscriminate weapons of mass murder against defenceless people is unconscionable.
“Celtic was founded by a community shaped by the legacy of genocide, displacement and famine. Our club’s roots lie in solidarity with those who suffered injustice and oppression.
“We cannot forget where we came from, nor turn our backs on those facing genocide today.
“At a time when Celtic requires unity and collective purpose, this appointment would be deeply divisive among the support. It would also represent a predictable and uninspiring choice at a moment when greater ambition is needed.
“We urge the Celtic board to listen to supporters’ concerns and reconsider this appointment.”
Keane joined Maccabi Tel Aviv in June 2023, several months before the Hamas-led attacks of October 7 triggered the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
During his time in charge, he guided the club to a domestic league and cup double before stepping down in the summer of 2024.
The former Tottenham, Liverpool and Republic of Ireland striker later explained why he chose to remain in the role throughout the season despite mounting criticism.
“I have a duty of care,” he said. “My analyst, for example, was at Middlesbrough for 12 years. For him to come with me to Israel and then for me to just walk away, leaving him and his family….
“So I made the decision to stay until the end of the season and to walk away from a big contract – another year, possibly two more years. We made that decision as a group, as staff.”
As speculation over the managerial position continues, the reaction from supporters highlights the challenge facing Celtic’s hierarchy.
While Keane’s football credentials and history with the club remain significant factors, the growing opposition from sections of the support could become an important consideration as the board weighs its next move.
The coming days may prove crucial in determining whether Celtic proceed with the appointment or explore alternative options in their search for a new manager.
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