CELTIC’S SECRET SUCCESSOR REVEALED! SHOCK NAME NOW IN LINE TO REPLACE MARTIN O’NEILL AT PARKHEAD

Celtic’s hunt for a new permanent manager has taken a dramatic twist with a surprise candidate now emerging as the leading contender to replace Martin O’Neill at Parkhead.

The Scottish Premiership champions are believed to have stepped up their managerial search in recent days as O’Neill’s brief but passionate return to the dugout draws closer to its conclusion. With internal discussions ongoing about the club’s long-term direction, a fresh name has entered the frame one that has taken many by surprise inside Celtic circles.

O’Neill’s short-term revival and uncertain future

Martin O’Neill’s second spell in charge of Celtic began as a rescue mission. At 73 years old, the former Republic of Ireland manager was never expected to take on a long-term role, but his willingness to return and steady the ship was greeted with admiration from the supporters.

His impact was immediate. Victories over Falkirk and Rangers gave the squad a much-needed lift after a turbulent few weeks following Brendan Rodgers’ departure. The energy, organisation, and belief O’Neill brought back to the dressing room helped stabilise the club at a crucial time.

However, the optimism that surrounded his return has been tempered by recent results. A 2–1 defeat to FC Midtjylland in Europe highlighted some of the limitations of the current squad and, by extension, the interim setup in place.

Speaking to TNT Sports after that loss, O’Neill gave an honest reflection on his situation, suggesting that his future lies entirely in the hands of the board.

I will be here as long as the football board wants me, it’s as simple as that,” he said. “That could be at the end of the week, it could be after the Kilmarnock game. I just don’t know.”

When asked whether he was in regular contact with the club’s hierarchy about extending his stay, O’Neill made it clear he isn’t pushing for answers.

“No, I’m not, and I don’t really want to be. I just want to be told when my time is up.”

Those remarks have only intensified speculation that Celtic’s leadership has already begun preparing for a change.

The managerial shortlist takes shape

Behind the scenes, Celtic have been working methodically to draw up a shortlist of potential successors who fit their long-term vision. Two names have dominated conversations in recent weeks Kjetil Knutsen, whose work with Bodø/Glimt has made him one of Europe’s most respected modern coaches, and Kieran McKenna, the Ipswich Town boss admired for his tactical clarity and calm leadership.

Both represent the kind of progressive, development-driven profile that Celtic want to pursue. But now, a new name has emerged that could shake up the managerial race entirely.

Celtic turn attention to a surprise new contender

According to journalist Alan Nixon, Celtic have added Brian Barry-Murphy, currently managing Cardiff City, to their list of managerial targets. The 45-year-old Irish coach has steadily built a strong reputation in the English game for his composed leadership, tactical intelligence, and ability to maximise player potential.

Barry-Murphy first made his mark at Rochdale, where he established an identity built on controlled possession and youth integration despite limited resources. His success there led him to Manchester City’s Elite Development Squad, where he further refined his coaching philosophy under the umbrella of the City Football Group (CFG).

That connection could prove decisive. Celtic’s strong ties to CFG, particularly in terms of scouting and shared football philosophy, make Barry-Murphy’s profile an attractive fit for Parkhead. Sources close to the club have described the Irishman as “calm, methodical, and forward-thinking” a manager who builds sustainable systems rather than short-term fixes.

His current Cardiff side have been praised for their discipline, pressing structure, and emphasis on technical football traits that align perfectly with Celtic’s ambitions to blend domestic dominance with European competitiveness.

Rival interest from England

However, Celtic aren’t alone in their admiration. Middlesbrough are also reportedly considering Barry-Murphy following Rob Edwards’ controversial move to Wolverhampton Wanderers. Boro are keen to find a manager capable of rebuilding their squad and promoting younger talent a challenge that fits Barry-Murphy’s credentials.

Despite that, Celtic are seen as the more prestigious opportunity. The lure of managing in the Champions League, working with a historic fanbase, and being part of a club with an ambitious long-term structure could make Parkhead a far more appealing destination.

What happens next

For now, O’Neill remains in the dugout and will lead Celtic into their next league fixture against Kilmarnock. The veteran manager continues to command respect within the dressing room and remains focused on delivering results for as long as he is in charge.

Yet behind the scenes, preparations for a new era are clearly underway. Whether the next man is Knutsen, McKenna, or the emerging outsider Barry-Murphy, Celtic’s upcoming appointment could define the club’s trajectory for years to come.

The expectation among supporters is that the next manager must not only deliver silverware but also rebuild the club’s European credibility and restore its long-term identity.

Celtic’s leadership knows the magnitude of this decision and the pressure to get it right has never been greater.