Martin O’Neill Rejects Board-Backed Popular Candidate for Celtic Job and Shocks Fans by Revealing Only Two Trusted Figures He Believes Are Truly Fit to Lead the Hoops

Celtic supporters were left stunned this week as former Hoops manager Martin O’Neill reportedly rejected a popular board-backed candidate for the managerial role, before naming two shocking figures he personally believes are the only ones truly fit to take charge of the club.

The board’s suggested candidate was none other than Wayne Rooney, the former England captain and Manchester United legend. Rooney’s growing reputation as a manager has seen him linked with several high-profile roles in recent years, and within Celtic, he was reportedly considered a safe, headline-grabbing option. His stature, leadership experience, and the promise of instant credibility made him an attractive choice to members of the board.

However, sources close to the situation reveal that O’Neill was unconvinced. Despite Rooney’s fame and managerial potential, O’Neill believes he lacks the specific qualities required to succeed at Celtic, a club where domestic dominance is expected and European campaigns are under intense scrutiny.

“Managing Celtic is not about reputation or popularity,” O’Neill reportedly said. “You need someone who understands the club, the supporters, and the pressures that come with the job. Not everyone who looks good on paper is right for Celtic.”

O’Neill’s outright rejection of Rooney has shocked fans and pundits alike. While some within the board reportedly viewed Rooney as a low-risk, marketable choice capable of commanding immediate respect, O’Neill prioritized experience, knowledge of Celtic’s culture, and leadership ability over star power.

Those familiar with his reasoning say that while Rooney has managerial experience, he has not lived or worked within the Scottish game at this level and, according to O’Neill, may not fully grasp the intensity of the Parkhead environment.

“Celtic isn’t a club where you can learn on the job,” O’Neill added. “The pressure is immediate, the scrutiny is constant, and supporters expect nothing less than full commitment from day one.”

The story became even more compelling when O’Neill revealed the two figures he believes are genuinely suitable to lead the Hoops: Neil Lennon, aged 54, and Peter Grant, aged 55. Both are deeply familiar with Celtic’s culture and are widely respected for their knowledge of the club, leadership qualities, and ability to handle high-pressure environments.

Neil Lennon is no stranger to Parkhead, having managed Celtic to multiple league titles and domestic trophies. O’Neill reportedly praised Lennon’s tactical understanding, his leadership on and off the pitch, and his ability to cope with the intense scrutiny from supporters and media alike. Lennon’s experience within Scottish football and his direct knowledge of the club’s inner workings give him the qualities O’Neill considers essential for the role.

Peter Grant, aged 55, is a former Celtic player and coach who has extensive experience in Scottish football. While he has not managed at the top level extensively, sources suggest O’Neill believes Grant’s leadership, tactical knowledge, and familiarity with Celtic’s culture make him a surprisingly strong candidate. His presence alongside Lennon was described by insiders as a “trusted balance of experience and club loyalty” that O’Neill believes is necessary for success.

These are the two people I would trust with this club,” O’Neill said. “They know what Celtic is, they know the supporters, and they understand the responsibility. That matters far more than headlines or popularity.”

O’Neill’s comments have sparked a lively debate among supporters and pundits. Many fans have praised him for emphasizing experience, loyalty, and cultural fit over a high-profile name, while some have questioned whether rejecting Rooney might be a missed opportunity to bring in a globally recognised figure.

Wayne Rooney is a huge name, but Celtic isn’t about marketing or media attention,” one supporter wrote.

“O’Neill knows this club better than anyone. If he says Rooney isn’t right, the board should listen,” added another.

Others have argued that Grant, despite his legendary status as a former player, has limited top-level managerial experience and that appointing someone so untested could be a gamble. However, O’Neill’s stance reflects his long-held belief that the club’s next manager must be intimately familiar with Celtic’s pressures and expectations rather than simply having a flashy résumé.

Celtic are navigating a critical period, both domestically and in Europe. Fans are eager for stability, consistency, and success, and the appointment of a manager is seen as pivotal for the club’s future. O’Neill’s rejection of Rooney and his endorsement of Lennon and Grant have placed the emphasis on cultural understanding, leadership, and trustworthiness — qualities he considers essential for anyone taking on the Hoops job.

“Celtic is not a job for someone learning on the go,” O’Neill concluded. “It’s about understanding the club, respecting the supporters, and having the strength and knowledge to handle pressure. That is why I trust only a few people to take this on.”

With the board considering its next steps, O’Neill’s intervention has reshaped the debate. Fans, pundits, and insiders alike are now weighing whether to follow the former manager’s advice or proceed with the board’s high-profile suggestion. One thing is clear: for O’Neill, Celtic is not a role for popularity or star power it is a job that demands trust, experience, and an intimate understanding of the club.