3 managers Celtic could turn to as potential Martin O’Neill successors

The uncertainty surrounding Martin O’Neill’s long-term future at Celtic continues, with the club still waiting for a final decision from the interim manager after a remarkable turnaround in fortunes.

Following an unexpected league and Scottish Cup double, O’Neill has strengthened his case to remain in charge permanently and is widely expected to be offered the role on a full-time basis. However, the former boss has repeatedly hinted at reservations in public, leaving open the possibility that he may reject the opportunity and force Celtic into a major managerial search this summer.

At present, names such as Robbie Keane and Craig Bellamy are believed to be leading contenders should the Parkhead club need a replacement. Yet with several respected coaches recently becoming available, Celtic could have alternative options worth considering.

One intriguing possibility is Bruno Genesio, a coach who has quietly built an impressive reputation across French football. Nicknamed “Pep” Genesio — initially as a joke before it became a sign of admiration — the 59-year-old has enjoyed spells in charge of Lyon, Rennes and Lille over the past decade. While he may not boast a trophy haul that jumps off the page, he has consistently delivered strong performances and developed a reputation for entertaining, front-foot football.

His résumé is made even more impressive by the fact he is one of only a handful of managers to record victories over Pep Guardiola, Jose Mourinho, Diego Simeone and Carlo Ancelotti in European competition. Known for his fiery personality and willingness to speak his mind, Genesio would certainly bring plenty of character to the Celtic dugout.

Another manager who could emerge as a surprise option is Wouter Vrancken. The Belgian tactician recently confirmed his departure from Sint-Truidense after guiding the club to an impressive third-place finish, despite them narrowly avoiding relegation only a season earlier.

Vrancken has built a reputation for an assertive, possession-based style and has already proven his credentials in Belgium, earning Coach of the Year honours after almost leading KRC Genk to the title in 2023. He also masterminded a memorable Belgian Cup triumph and promotion with KV Mechelen in 2019 before establishing them as a consistent top-half side. Although he has yet to test himself outside Belgium, his achievements have already attracted interest from clubs across England and France.

Then there is Sebastian Pocognoli, who may appeal to Celtic if they are looking for an ambitious, modern appointment.

The former Brighton player enjoyed a successful rise in coaching after working with Belgium’s under-18 side before taking charge of Union Saint-Gilloise. In his first season at the helm, he guided the club to a historic league title — their first in 90 years — enhancing his growing reputation as one of Belgium’s brightest young managers.

With links to Brighton owner Tony Bloom through his past, Pocognoli could represent a bold and forward-thinking appointment should Celtic choose to look in a different direction.