Celtic Supporter Clubs Object to Robbie Keane’s Potential Management Role
Numerous Celtic supporter groups have released a statement expressing their disapproval of Robbie Keane’s possible appointment as the manager of Maccabi Tel Aviv. The former football star ranks among the frontrunners for the position, as discussions reportedly continue between the club and major shareholder Dermot Desmond.
Keane, the record goalscorer for the Republic of Ireland, previously spent a notable loan period at Celtic Park in 2010, where he celebrated league victories while later managing clubs in Israel and Hungary. However, his choice to remain in Israel during the ongoing Gaza conflict has drawn significant backlash in Ireland, causing some Celtic fans to turn against him.
Recently, graffiti and banners opposing Keane’s potential management have appeared near Celtic Park. Additionally, a group identifying as Celtic Fans for the Liberation of Palestine has made their stance known through an online statement. The North Curve Celtic account on X shared a comprehensive list of 67 organizations that stand in solidarity with this message.
This list features well-known factions such as the Green Brigade and Bhoys Celtic Ultras, alongside various podcasts, including Cynic and eTims, and established supporter groups like the Glasgow University Celtic Supporters Club (CSC) and Craigneuk Tommy Gemmell CSC.
The statement from these groups articulated their concerns, emphasizing: “Celtic supporters have a long and proud history of solidarity with the Palestinian people. We cannot overlook Robbie Keane’s decision to manage Maccabi Tel Aviv amid the ongoing violence in Gaza.” They further criticized the choice of a club based in Israel while acknowledging the severe humanitarian crisis occurring just miles away.
The statement went on to highlight Celtic’s roots, which were deeply influenced by the legacies of oppression, urging that they cannot forget their foundational history in light of today’s injustices. It asserted that Keane’s potential appointment would create division at a time when the club needs unity and collective purpose, calling for the Celtic board to heed the supporters’ concerns and reconsider this decision.
Keane joined Maccabi Tel Aviv in June 2023, shortly after a Hamas-led assault on October 7, which ignited a devastating conflict resulting in over 70,000 fatalities due to Israeli bombings in Gaza. The 45-year-old achieved a league and cup double with Maccabi before resigning in the summer of 2024.
Reflecting on his time in Israel, Keane noted that he decided to stay until the end of the season partly out of responsibility for the staff he had brought along. “I have a duty of care,” he stated, explaining that leaving staff members behind would not have been responsible. “We made that decision as a group, as a staff,” he added, highlighting the commitment he felt toward his team during challenging circumstances.
