Zero McKenna Celtic FC Talks as Bellamy Commits to Wales

Soccer Managerial Updates

Kieran McKenna and Wales head coach have been connected with the Scottish champions manager position

The Championship club's their manager declares he has had "zero conversations" with the Glasgow club about their coaching position, while Welsh head coach the former striker is dedicated to seeing out his team's World Cup campaign.

Each are being considered with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on the start of the week.

The Manager's Stance on The Scottish Club

McKenna described the Glasgow giants as "an enormous football club" but stressed he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.

The mid-thirties took charge of Portman Road in 2021 and led them to the English top flight with back-to-back promotions, but they managed only a handful of victories last campaign as they were demoted back to the second division and they presently occupy twelfth place in the Championship.

"I have not had any of those conversations," the English capital native former Irish youth international said when questioned about being on Celtic's shortlist.

"It's not something I have given any thought to, or where any portion of my concentration 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 radar."

Context and Contractual Aspects

It has been suggested that the manager would be open to speaking to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.

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

McKenna agreed to a fresh four-year contract in last year and was asked about his reported buyout clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he responded. "I'm unaware what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you anyway!

"I approach this job like I'll be Ipswich manager forever. I know that's not always going to be the case, but I will consistently do my best as while I am here."

The Welsh Coach's Position

The former striker represented Celtic on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the former Wales forward is inclined to complete the current World Cup qualification, a stance that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from assuming the Glasgow position.

The Welsh squad are presently third in their qualifying group behind group toppers the Red Devils and second-placed North Macedonia.

Victories over the minnows and their rivals in next month would secure their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but guaranteed of reaching that stage, thanks to a successful European competition performance, should they not finish as their group second place.

Considering his present stance, the Wales manager, whose contract concludes after Euro 2028, would not be available until following the play-offs at the earliest.

Important Highlights

  • Kieran McKenna refutes any talks with the Scottish club
  • The coach stresses dedication to Ipswich Town
  • Craig Bellamy focused on World Cup campaign
  • Each managers linked with Celtic position
  • Bellamy unavailable until after World Cup matches
Michael Kramer
Michael Kramer

A tech journalist and digital strategist with a passion for uncovering emerging trends and making complex topics accessible to all readers.