No McKenna Celtic FC Talks as Craig Bellamy Commits to Wales

Football Coaching News

Ipswich's manager and Wales head coach have been connected with the Scottish champions vacancy

The Championship club's Kieran McKenna declares he has had "zero discussions" with the Glasgow club about their coaching position, while Wales head coach the former striker is dedicated to seeing out his squad's World Cup campaign.

Both are being considered with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following the former manager's departure on the start of the week.

The Manager's Stance on Celtic

McKenna described Celtic as "a really big soccer institution" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.

The 39-year-old assumed control of Portman Road in 2021 and led them to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they won just four games last season as they were relegated back to the second division and they presently occupy twelfth place in England's second tier.

"There have been any of those discussions," the London-born former Northern Ireland youth international said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.

"This isn't a matter I have given any thought to, or where any portion of my focus is currently.

"I have a special position here at a remarkable team. And we're at a crucial phase of the season. Everything outside of that hasn't touched my awareness."

Context and Agreement Aspects

Reports indicate that McKenna would be willing to talk to the Scottish side given his childhood support.

"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about those. "I don't think everyone has to go around and announce what they used to be, but of course it's a massive football club."

The coach agreed to a fresh four-year contract in last year and was questioned about his alleged buyout clause.

"In every manager's contract, there are things," he responded. "I'm unaware what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!

"I tackle this role like I will remain Ipswich manager indefinitely. I know that's not invariably going to be the situation, but I'll always do my best as long as I remain in position."

The Welsh Coach's Situation

Bellamy played for Celtic on loan from Newcastle United in 2005, but the ex- Welsh striker is minded to finish the current World Cup campaign, a position that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from assuming the Celtic job.

The Welsh squad are currently in third place in their qualifying group behind group toppers Belgium and second-placed Macedonia.

Wins over the minnows and their rivals in November would secure their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually assured of making those, due to a productive Nations League campaign, should they fail to finish as their group second place.

Given his current position, the Wales manager, whose contract concludes after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until after the play-offs at the minimum.

Important Highlights

  • Ipswich's manager denies having conversations with Celtic
  • The coach stresses commitment to Ipswich Town
  • Wales' manager focused on World Cup campaign
  • Both coaches connected with the Glasgow vacancy
  • The Welsh coach unavailable until post tournament matches
Manuel Marquez
Manuel Marquez

A digital strategist with over a decade of experience in helping organizations leverage technology for innovation and sustainable growth.