Robbie Keane, Ireland’s record goalscorer, played for Celtic but his relationship with the manager has come under criticism.
Published June 5, 2026
Celtic’s interest in appointing Robbie Keane as their new manager has sparked anger among the club’s pro-Palestinian fans following his appointment at Maccabi Tel Aviv in Israel.
Keane is said to have entered into negotiations with Dermot Desmond, the club’s largest shareholder, and is now the front-runner to take charge of the Scottish champions.
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Keane, Ireland’s record goalscorer, had a prolific loan spell at Celtic in 2010.
However, his decision to remain in Israel after the start of the Gaza conflict sparked criticism in Ireland, with a vocal section of the Celtic fan base turning against him.
Celtic supporters have displayed the Palestinian flag at matches throughout the conflict.
Graffiti and banners protesting against Keane’s appointment as manager are currently appearing outside Celtic’s stadium in Glasgow.
A group called Celtic Fans for the Liberation of Palestine said in a statement that Keane’s appointment would be “deeply divisive among supporters”.
X’s ‘North Curve Celtic’ account published a list of 67 organizations supporting this statement.
A statement said: “Celtic supporters have a long and proud history of solidarity with the Palestinian people.”
“For us, we cannot ignore Robbie Keene’s decision to take control of Maccabi Tel Aviv during the Gaza massacre.
“Choosing to run a club in Israel is unconscionable when that same country, less than 60 miles away, is using indiscriminate weapons of mass murder against defenseless people.
“Celtic was founded by a community shaped by the legacies of genocide, forced displacement and famine. Our club’s roots lie in solidarity with those who have suffered injustice and oppression.”
“We call on the Celtic board to listen to the concerns of supporters and reconsider this appointment.”
Keene was appointed Maccabi in June 2023, ahead of the October 7 Hamas-led attack that triggered Israel’s bombing of Gaza.
The 45-year-old led Maccabi to a league and cup double before resigning in 2024 and joining Hungarian club Ferencváros last year.
Keene said he stayed throughout the operation, partly because of his responsibility for the staff he brought to Israel.
“I have a duty of care,” he said. “For example, my analyst was at Middlesbrough for 12 years. He came to Israel with me and then I just left him and his family and left.”
Caretaker manager Martin O’Neill, 74, led Celtic to the Scottish Premiership title on the final day of the season and also won the Scottish Cup.
