Zero Kieran McKenna Celtic FC Talks as Craig Bellamy Pledges to Wales

Soccer Coaching News

Ipswich's manager and Craig Bellamy have been connected with the Celtic manager position

The Championship club's Kieran McKenna declares he has had "zero discussions" with Celtic about their managerial vacancy, while Wales head coach Craig Bellamy is dedicated to seeing out his squad's World Cup campaign.

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

McKenna's Stance on The Scottish Club

McKenna referred to the Glasgow giants as "a really big football club" but emphasized he is "deeply involved" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.

The 39-year-old assumed control of Ipswich in recent years and led them to the English top flight with consecutive elevations, but they managed only four games last campaign as they were relegated back to the second division and they currently sit 12th in the Championship.

"I have not had any of those discussions," the English capital native former Northern Ireland young player said when questioned about being on the candidate list.

"It's not something I have given any thought to, or where any part of my focus is this week.

"I have a unique job here at a remarkable club. And we're at a really important stage of the campaign. Everything external hasn't touched my awareness."

Context and Agreement Details

Reports indicate that the manager would be open to speaking to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.

"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about these. "I don't think everyone has to publicly and announce what they were, but of course it's a really big football club."

McKenna signed a new four-year contract in 2024 and was questioned about his reported buyout clause.

"In every manager's contract, there are provisions," he responded. "I'm unaware what mine are and, if I did, I wouldn't disclose you anyway!

"I approach this job like I'll be Ipswich manager forever. I know that's not invariably going to be the situation, but I'll always give maximum effort as long as I remain in position."

The Welsh Coach's Position

The former striker represented the Hoops on loan from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Wales forward is minded to finish the current global tournament campaign, a stance that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from assuming the Celtic job.

Wales are presently in third place in their World Cup group behind leaders the Red Devils and second-placed North Macedonia.

Wins over the minnows and their rivals in next month would secure their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually assured of reaching that stage, thanks to a successful Nations League performance, should they fail to finish as Group J second place.

Given his present stance, Bellamy, whose agreement expires after the European Championship, would not be available until following the play-offs at the earliest.

Key Points

  • Kieran McKenna denies any conversations with the Scottish club
  • The coach emphasizes dedication to Ipswich Town
  • Wales' manager concentrated on international campaign
  • Each coaches connected with the Glasgow vacancy
  • The Welsh coach not free until post tournament qualifiers
Donald Nelson
Donald Nelson

A digital strategist with over a decade of experience in tech innovation and startup ecosystems, passionate about sharing actionable insights.

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