Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged inAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleRobbie Keane could be set to return to Celtic (Mike Egerton/PA) (PA Wire)Former Celtic striker Robbie Keane is a leading candidate for the manager’s position at Celtic Park, but his potential appointment is facing significant opposition from numerous fan groups. Sixty-seven Celtic fan organisations have signed a letter urging the club to reconsider, primarily due to Keane's recent role as manager of Maccabi Tel Aviv. The opposition stems from Keane's decision to remain in Israel as Maccabi Tel Aviv manager after the country's bombardment of Gaza began in late 2023. Celtic fan groups, including North Curve Celtic and the Green Brigade, highlighted their long-standing solidarity with the Palestinian people, deeming Keane's actions “unconscionable” given the ongoing conflict. Keane, who won the Israeli Premier League and Toto Cup with Maccabi, eventually resigned eight months into the conflict, stating he stayed due to a “duty of care” to his staff. In fullCeltic fans sign letter opposing Robbie Keane appointment over Maccabi Tel Aviv pastThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in

Former Ireland star reportedly held talks with club’s top shareholder about post, but some fans object to his time coaching at Maccabi Tel Aviv during Gaza war

Keane remained at Maccabi beyond the start of Israel’s bombardment of Gaza in late 2023

Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or…

Celtic's interest in appointing Robbie Keane as their new manager has sparked anger among the club's pro-Palestine fans after his previous role with Israeli side Maccabi Tel…

Supporters' groups condemn 'unconscionable' decision by Irishman to coach Maccabi Tel Aviv during Israeli war on Gaza

Ireland's record goalscorer Robbie Keane played for Celtic but his link to manager's job is facing criticism.

LONDON: The Israel-Palestine conflict has spread to the most unlikely of arenas — Scottish football. The famously pro-Palestinian fans of the Glasgow club Celtic have reacted…

Why Celtic’s Palestine solidarity groups oppose Robbie Keane’s potential return, citing his Maccabi Tel Aviv spell during the Gaza war and club fan culture.