Jens Berthel Askou explains decision to join Toulouse instead of Celtic

Jens Berthel Askou’s decision to join Toulouse instead of Celtic has raised eyebrows among supporters, especially given how strongly the Motherwell boss had been linked with the Parkhead job after an impressive spell in Scotland.

During his time at Motherwell, Askou quickly built a reputation for bold, high-intensity football. His side stood out as one of the most aggressive pressing teams outside Celtic and Rangers, while also showing confidence in possession and a willingness to play out under pressure. Even against stronger opposition, Motherwell often looked well-organised, compact without the ball, and dangerous in transition — a style that naturally caught the attention of bigger clubs.

At Celtic, where fans have been debating the club’s long-term direction and managerial identity, Askou’s profile looked like a strong fit. Young, modern, tactically structured, and unafraid to take risks — he ticked a lot of the boxes supporters associate with a progressive head coach.

However, Toulouse moved quicker and more decisively. The Ligue 1 side pushed ahead with their appointment while Celtic’s situation remained less certain, ultimately winning the race for his signature. Since then, there has been debate over whether Celtic were genuinely close to making a move or whether the links were more speculative than concrete.

Journalist Ronnie Charters, speaking on the STV Radio Football Show, suggested the reality may have been more straightforward than fans assumed. He indicated there may have been some level of contact, but felt Celtic were not fully committed, while Toulouse were already well advanced and ready to act.

Financial incentives also played a part, with Toulouse able to offer a strong package, alongside the appeal of stepping into Ligue 1 — a major European league that provides a higher level of week-to-week competition and greater visibility.

In the end, while Askou’s style made him an appealing candidate for Celtic on paper, Toulouse’s decisiveness, top-flight status, and stronger overall project proved enough to secure his move to France.