No Kieran McKenna Celtic FC Talks as Craig Bellamy Commits to Wales

Football Coaching Updates

Kieran McKenna and Craig Bellamy have been connected with the Celtic manager position

Ipswich Town's Kieran McKenna declares he has had "zero discussions" with Celtic about their coaching position, while Welsh head coach the former striker is committed to seeing out his squad's international campaign.

Each are being considered with the manager's job at the Scottish champions following the former manager's resignation on the start of the week.

McKenna's Stance on Celtic

The Ipswich boss described the Glasgow giants as "an enormous soccer institution" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.

The mid-thirties took charge of Portman Road in recent years and led them to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they won just a handful of victories last campaign as they were demoted back to the Championship and they currently sit 12th in England's second tier.

"I have not had any of those discussions," the English capital native ex- Irish youth international said when asked about being on the candidate list.

"This isn't a matter I have considered seriously, or where any part of my focus is this week.

"I possess a special job here at a special club. And we're at a crucial phase of the campaign. Anything external hasn't touched my awareness."

Background and Agreement Details

It has been suggested that the manager would be willing to talk to the Scottish side given his boyhood allegiances.

"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about these. "It's unlikely all people has to publicly and announce what they were, but naturally it's a massive sports organization."

McKenna agreed to a fresh multi-year deal in 2024 and was questioned about his reported buyout clause.

"In every manager's contract, there are provisions," he replied. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't disclose you anyway!

"I approach this role like I will remain Town's coach indefinitely. I understand that's not invariably going to be the situation, but I'll always give maximum effort as while I am here."

The Welsh Coach's Situation

Bellamy played for Celtic on loan from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Wales striker is inclined to complete the current global tournament qualification, a stance that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from assuming the Celtic job.

Wales are currently third in their qualifying group behind group toppers Belgium and runners-up Macedonia.

Victories over Liechtenstein and their rivals in next month would secure their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually assured of reaching that stage, thanks to a productive Nations League performance, even if they fail to finish as their group second place.

Given his present stance, Bellamy, whose contract concludes after Euro 2028, would not be available until after the play-offs at the earliest.

Important Points

  • Ipswich's manager denies having conversations with Celtic
  • The coach emphasizes commitment to Ipswich Town
  • Craig Bellamy focused on international campaign
  • Each managers connected with Celtic position
  • The Welsh coach unavailable until post World Cup qualifiers
Travis Parker
Travis Parker

Mira Chen is a tech journalist and digital strategist with over a decade of experience covering emerging technologies and innovation trends across Europe.