Scott Brown Backs His Choice: “There’s Only One Man Fit to Lead Celtic Into the Future” Parkhead Legend Reveals Who He Believes Should Take Charge at Celtic. Celtic’s managerial search
Scott Brown Backs His Choice: “There’s Only One Man Fit to Lead Celtic Into the Future” Parkhead Legend Reveals Who He Believes Should Take Charge at Celtic.
Celtic’s managerial search is once again dominating headlines, and the debate over who should take the reins has split opinions among supporters, pundits, and even former players. The club finds itself at a crossroads torn between pursuing a proven name from abroad or trusting someone who already understands the unique culture of Parkhead.
But for Scott Brown, there’s no debate at all. The former Celtic captain has spoken with conviction, insisting there’s only one man truly capable of leading the Hoops into a new era of dominance someone who embodies the spirit, history, and hunger of the club.
“There’s absolutely no doubt for me,” Brown said in an interview earlier this week. “When you look at what Celtic need right now identity, leadership, and hunger there’s one man who has all of that. He knows the club inside out, he knows what it means to wear that badge, and he’s got the mentality to bring back dominance. Celtic doesn’t just need a manager they need a leader.”
Brown, who captained Celtic through one of the most successful periods in modern Scottish football, understands the pressures that come with the Parkhead job better than most. His words carry weight, particularly among supporters who still view him as the heartbeat of the club’s golden years. And in his view, the answer lies within not outside.
“It’s not about big names or foreign reputations,” Brown continued. “Celtic is more than tactics or fancy football. It’s about connection, passion, and standards. Whoever comes in has to understand what it means to win for this club not just how to win, but why it matters so much. You can’t fake that.”
The club’s board, led by Peter Lawwell and CEO Michael Nicholson, are said to be conducting an exhaustive search, with several names reportedly on the shortlist. Norwegian tactician Kjetil Knutsen, Scotland boss Steve Clarke, and long-serving assistant John Kennedy have all been discussed. But it’s clear Brown’s backing points directly toward Kennedy the man who’s been part of Celtic’s coaching staff for over a decade and has quietly built a reputation for professionalism and tactical intelligence.
“John’s the right fit,” Brown said firmly. “He’s been part of the Celtic fabric for years. He’s learned under some top managers, from Rodgers to Postecoglou, and he’s got their respect. He’s calm, smart, and he gets what this club is all about. He knows how to handle the players and the expectations. I think it’s time he’s given his chance.”
Kennedy’s story is one of resilience and loyalty. A former Celtic defender whose playing career was cut short by injury, he transitioned into coaching and quickly rose through the ranks. Over the years, he’s been praised for his work on the training ground, his attention to detail, and his commitment to the club’s philosophy. He even stepped up as interim manager in the past, guiding the team with stability during turbulent moments.
For Brown, Kennedy’s deep understanding of Celtic’s identity makes him the logical successor. “Sometimes the right man is already in the building,” he explained. “Celtic need stability, not just a big name for the headlines. Continuity can be a strength. John’s earned that chance through loyalty and hard work. He’s seen what works, and what doesn’t. That kind of insight is priceless.”
Still, not everyone is convinced. Some fans feel Celtic must look outward to stay competitive in Europe, arguing that fresh ideas and international experience are essential. Others side with Brown, believing a manager who already understands the club’s DNA would bring the stability and unity needed after months of uncertainty.
As speculation continues, the timing of the appointment looms large. With the January transfer window approaching, Celtic must act quickly to install a figure capable of shaping both the team’s style and its strategy for the remainder of the season. The new manager will face the dual challenge of maintaining domestic dominance while reigniting the club’s European ambitions.
Yet amid all the rumours and reports, Brown’s message remains clear Celtic need someone who feels the club, not just manages it. “Celtic isn’t like any other job,” he said. “The pressure’s relentless, but so is the passion. Whoever comes in has to breathe that, every single day. It’s not just a football club it’s a way of life.”
The former captain’s endorsement has undoubtedly added new fuel to the debate. Whether the Celtic board listens to his advice remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Brown’s voice still echoes loudly around Parkhead.
As he put it bluntly: “You can bring in whoever you want, but unless they understand what Celtic stands for, it won’t work. And I know there’s one man who already does.”
With those powerful words, Scott Brown has made his stance clear and once again, it’s up to the Celtic board to decide whether to follow the path of loyalty and tradition, or venture into a new direction in their pursuit of glory.
