Celtic’s managerial situation has taken another dramatic turn following reports that the Scottish Premiership giants have reached an agreement with a former Premier League manager to potentially take charge of the club. The development comes amid growing attention surrounding Martin O’Neill’s future after a difficult run of results during September 2026.
The Parkhead club has endured a challenging period in recent weeks, with results increasing the pressure surrounding the current leadership of the team. While O’Neill remains in the role, speculation over what could happen next has intensified, with supporters and observers beginning to discuss possible replacements should the club decide to make a change.
Several high-profile names have already been linked with the Celtic job. Manchester United legend Roy Keane has attracted attention after previously indicating that he remains open to a return to management, while his appearances at Celtic matches have also added fuel to speculation among supporters.
Wales manager Craig Bellamy has also been mentioned as a potential candidate, with his coaching experience making him another name being discussed.
However, the latest reports have placed Eddie Howe, the former Newcastle United and Bournemouth manager, at the centre of the Celtic speculation. According to the reports circulating around the situation, Celtic have reached an agreement with Howe regarding the possibility of him taking over at Parkhead.
There has been no official confirmation from Celtic or Howe at the time of writing, meaning the claim should be treated as an unconfirmed development rather than a completed managerial appointment.
Howe would represent a major name for Celtic if the reported agreement eventually results in an appointment. The English coach built his reputation during his time at Bournemouth, where he guided the club from the lower divisions into the Premier League and established them as a competitive top-flight side. His work at Bournemouth subsequently earned him the opportunity to manage Newcastle United.
His Newcastle spell also placed him on the European stage. Howe helped transform the club into a side competing near the top end of the Premier League and secured Champions League qualification during his tenure. His managerial experience at the highest level of English football would therefore make him a notable potential candidate for a club such as Celtic.
The reports have generated excitement among Celtic supporters, particularly because the club has recently been linked with several different managerial possibilities. Roy Keane remains one of the most discussed names because of his history with Celtic and Manchester United, while Craig Bellamy continues to attract attention because of his work with the Wales national team.
Kieran McKenna has also been mentioned among the possible options. The former Ipswich Town boss has built a strong reputation for developing teams and implementing an identifiable style of football. His name has therefore entered the conversation surrounding Celtic’s potential managerial plans.
But the latest claim involving Howe has created a different level of interest because of his extensive Premier League experience. If Celtic have genuinely reached an agreement with the former Newcastle manager, the next major question would be whether that agreement is intended for an immediate takeover or relates to a potential future appointment.
That distinction could prove important because O’Neill’s position has not officially been declared vacant. Despite the difficult September run, any decision over the manager’s future would ultimately have to come from Celtic’s hierarchy. Until the club makes an announcement, speculation about a replacement remains exactly that.
For Celtic supporters, however, the possibility of Howe arriving at Parkhead has already created significant discussion. His experience of managing under pressure, competing against some of the biggest clubs in England and working with players at Premier League level would make him a particularly interesting figure if the reports prove accurate.
There is also the question of whether Howe would be interested in taking on the challenge of Scottish football. Celtic would offer the opportunity to compete for domestic trophies while also attempting to establish themselves as a stronger force in European competition. The club’s expectations are extremely high, and any new manager would immediately face pressure to deliver results.
The coming days could therefore be crucial for Celtic. O’Neill’s future remains under consideration following the club’s difficult September, while speculation continues to surround a number of possible successors.
For now, the biggest talking point is the claim that Celtic have reached an agreement with a former Premier League manager. If the reports surrounding Howe are eventually confirmed by the club, it could mark one of the most significant managerial developments at Parkhead in recent years.
Until an official announcement is made, however, Celtic supporters will have to wait for confirmation before treating the reported agreement as a done deal.
