No Kieran McKenna Celtic FC Talks as Craig Bellamy Commits to Welsh National Team

Football Managerial Updates

Ipswich's manager and Craig Bellamy have been connected with the Celtic manager position

Ipswich Town's Kieran McKenna states he has had "no conversations" with Celtic about their managerial vacancy, while Welsh national team manager the former striker is committed to completing his squad's World Cup campaign.

Each are being considered with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following the former manager's resignation on Monday.

McKenna's Stance on The Scottish Club

McKenna referred to the Glasgow giants as "an enormous soccer institution" but stressed he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.

The 39-year-old took charge of Ipswich in recent years and guided the team to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they won just four games last season as they were relegated back to the Championship and they currently sit 12th in the Championship.

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

"This isn't a matter I have given any thought to, or where any part of my concentration is this week.

"I possess a special position here at a remarkable club. And we're at a crucial stage of the campaign. Everything external hasn't touched my awareness."

Context and Agreement Aspects

Reports indicate that McKenna would be open to speaking to Celtic given his childhood support.

"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when asked about those. "It's unlikely all people has to publicly and declare what they were, but of course it's a really big sports organization."

McKenna signed a new four-year contract in 2024 and was questioned about his reported buyout clause.

"In every manager's contract, there are things," he responded. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, if I did, I wouldn't tell you anyway!

"I tackle this role like I'll be Town's coach forever. I understand that's not always going to be the situation, but I'll always do my best as while I am here."

The Welsh Coach's Situation

The former striker played for the Hoops on temporary transfer from the Magpies in 2005, but the ex- Wales forward is minded to finish the current World Cup campaign, a position that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from immediately taking the Celtic job.

Wales are currently third in their qualifying group behind group toppers Belgium and runners-up North Macedonia.

Victories over the minnows and their rivals in next month would book their place in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually guaranteed of making those, thanks to a successful Nations League campaign, even if they not finish as their group runners-up.

Given his current stance, Bellamy, whose contract expires after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until following the play-offs at the earliest.

Key Points

  • Ipswich's manager refutes any conversations with the Scottish club
  • McKenna emphasizes dedication to Ipswich Town
  • Wales' manager concentrated on World Cup qualification
  • Both coaches linked with the Glasgow vacancy
  • Bellamy unavailable until post World Cup qualifiers
Yesenia Brandt
Yesenia Brandt

A passionate architect and sustainability advocate with over a decade of experience in green building design and eco-conscious construction practices.