Dozens of Celtic supporters’ clubs have put their names to a statement opposing the potential appointment of Robbie Keane as manager, replacing his previous managerial role at Maccabi Tel Aviv.
Keane is one of the most likely candidates to take over, with reports suggesting he is engaged in ongoing talks with majority shareholder Dermot Desmond.
The Republic of Ireland’s all-time top goalscorer spent time on loan at Celtic Park in 2010 and has won league titles in Israel and Hungary as manager.
But his decision to stay in Israel after the Gaza conflict began sparked criticism in Ireland and turned some of his Celtic support against him.
Graffiti and banners opposing Keane’s appointment as manager have appeared outside Celtic Park in recent days, and a group calling itself Celtic Fans for the Liberation of Palestine has issued a statement online.
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The list includes the Green Brigade and Bhoys Celtic ultras, as well as several podcasts including Cynic and eTims, as well as long-established groups including Glasgow University Celtic Supporters Club (CSC) and Craigneuk Tommy Gemmell CSC.
The statement outlined the opposition and added: “Celtic supporters have a long and proud history of solidarity with the Palestinian people.
“For us, Robbie Keane’s decision to manage Maccabi Tel Aviv during the massacre in Gaza cannot be ignored.
“The decision to operate a club in Israel, less than 40 miles away, using indiscriminate weapons of mass destruction against defenseless people is unconscionable.
“Celtic was founded by a community shaped by the legacy of genocide, refugees and famine. Our club’s roots lie in solidarity with those who have suffered injustice and oppression. We cannot forget where we came from, and we cannot turn our backs on those who face genocide today.
“At a time when Celtic are calling for unity and collective purpose, this appointment will cause serious divisions among supporters and is a predictable and uninspiring choice at a time when greater ambition is needed.
“We urge the Celtic board to listen to the concerns of supporters and reconsider this appointment.”
Keen was appointed by the Maccabees in June 2023, months before the Hamas-led October 7 attack that triggered Israel’s bombing of Gaza, killing more than 70,000 people.
The 45-year-old led Maccabi to a league and cup double before resigning in the summer of 2024.
The Irishman later explained that he stayed for the entire campaign because of his responsibility to the staff he had taken to Israel.
“I have a duty of care,” he said. “For example, an analyst of mine worked in Middlesbrough for 12 years. He came with me to Israel and then I asked him to leave and leave him and his family behind…
“So I decided to stay until the end of the season and walk away from a big contract. It could be another year, maybe two years. We made that decision as a group, as a staff.”
