Celtic fans are opposing a possible appointment of Keane due to previous links with the Israeli club

Scottish club Celtic’s interest in appointing Robbie Keane as manager has sparked criticism among the club’s pro-Palestinian fans, due to Keane’s previous association with Israeli side Maccabi Tel Aviv.

Keane is the leading contender to take over as Celtic manager after reportedly entering into talks with the club’s main shareholder Dermot Desmond.

The 45-year-old, Ireland’s top scorer, enjoyed a successful one-year loan spell at Celtic in 2010, but his decision to remain in Israel even after the outbreak of the Gaza conflict was not well received by Celtic supporters.

Celtic supporters have displayed Palestine flags at matches during the conflict.

Now graffiti and banners opposing the prospect of Keane becoming manager have appeared outside the Celtic stadium in Glasgow.

Multiple groups supporting the Palestinian group have issued statements opposing Keane’s impending appointment, saying his signature would go against the club’s solidarity with those who have suffered oppression and injustice.

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Keane was appointed by Maccabi in June 2023, ahead of the start of the Gaza conflict.

The 45-year-old guided Maccabi to the league and cup double before resigning in 2024 and moving to Hungarian club Ferencvaros in 2025.

Keane said he stayed throughout the campaign, partly because of his responsibility for the staff he took with him to Israel.

Interim boss Martin O’Neill, 74, led Celtic to the Scottish Premier League title on the final day of this season and also lifted the Scottish Cup.

Published on June 5, 2026