LONDON: Celtic's pursuit of Robbie Keane as their new manager has ignited controversy among the club's pro-Palestinian supporters, who are angered by his prior association with Israeli side Maccabi Tel Aviv. Keane, Ireland's all-time leading goalscorer, is the frontrunner for the position after reportedly initiating discussions with Dermot Desmond, Celtic's principal shareholder. He enjoyed a successful loan spell with the Scottish champions in 2010, but his decision to remain in Israel following the outbreak of the Gaza conflict has drawn criticism in Ireland and alienated a significant portion of the Celtic fanbase.
Fan Backlash and Protests
Celtic supporters have consistently displayed Palestinian flags at matches throughout the conflict. Recently, graffiti and banners opposing Keane's potential appointment have appeared outside Celtic Park in Glasgow. A group called 'Celtic Fans for the Liberation of Palestine' issued a statement warning that hiring Keane "would be deeply divisive among the support." The 'North Curve Celtic' account on X listed 67 groups endorsing the statement, which emphasized the club's historic solidarity with Palestinians.
"Celtic supporters have a long and proud history of solidarity with the Palestinian people," the statement read. "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 urge the Celtic board to listen to supporters' concerns and reconsider this appointment."
Keane's Tenure at Maccabi Tel Aviv
Keane was appointed by Maccabi Tel Aviv in June 2023, before the Hamas-led attacks on October 7 that triggered Israel's bombardment of Gaza. The 45-year-old led Maccabi to a league and cup double before resigning in 2024 and moving to Hungarian club Ferencvaros in 2025. Keane defended his decision to stay for the full campaign, citing responsibility to staff he brought to Israel. "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."
Interim Management and Current Status
Interim boss Martin O'Neill, 74, led Celtic to the Scottish Premiership title on the final day of the season and also secured the Scottish Cup. The club's board now faces pressure from fans to reconsider Keane's appointment amid growing opposition.
