Credit: Manh Tung - Breaking Media

Jack Dawson

Thu 2 April 2026 7:30, UK

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Dermot Desmond has been hunting for Martin O’Neill’s successor for months now, but Celtic appear no closer to appointing a manager for next season.

It is vital that the Hoops get their next appointment right after the disastrous reign of Wilfried Nancy.

One coach linked to the role was Craig Bellamy, who is the current manager of the Wales National Team.

However, on Monday, the former Hoops star reaffirmed his commitment to his job, essentially ruling himself out of the running.

Below, Football Insider explores why Desmond should be embarrassed as Celtic’s managerial hunt takes another twist.

Craig Bellamy describes Wales job as ‘best in the world’

While Bellamy’s managerial career has been short, he has certainly impressed so far.

Wales only narrowly missed out on qualification to the 2026 World Cup, going out to Bosnia and Herzegovina on penalties in the playoffs, with the Balkan nation eventually securing their place in the tournament with a victory over Italy.

Therefore, the links to the Celtic job were not misplaced, with Bellamy proving himself to be one of the most promising managers in the UK at present.

However, these hopes are now all but over, with Bellamy telling BBC Sport on 30 March: “The heartbreak is actually more than I anticipated, but the energy to refocus and go again is definitely still there.

“I really enjoy this. We’ll talk more after it [Tuesday’s friendly against Northern Ireland] probably because my mind is just so focused on the present moment. But it’s the best role in the world.

“Nothing will ever compare to this so why would I want to wish it away? I’ve really enjoyed doing this and I still do.”

🗣️ “That leaves me more bewildered”

Wales head coach Craig Bellamy couldn’t believe his side lost on penalties to Bosnia-Herzegovina, after all their preparation 🤔#BBCFootball pic.twitter.com/uDxpLVVBx4

— BBC Sport Wales (@BBCSportWales) March 27, 2026

This is simply unacceptable, and Desmond has simply not done enough to at least try to convince Bellamy.

The appointment of the Welshman would have been a coup, with the upcoming manager proving they have the capabilities to succeed in the Scottish Premiership time after time.

Therefore, Desmond should hang his head in shame as Celtic still appears drastically underprepared to appoint O’Neill’s successor.

Who is the current favourite for the Celtic job?

Football Insider has exclusively revealed that Jens Berthel Askou is “high” on Celtic’s list of candidates.

The Motherwell boss has impressed so far this season, with the club looking certain to secure a top-four finish and hence, European football.

Askou has been seen at Celtic Park multiple times already this season, which has only heightened speculation about a summer switch.

However, it remains to be seen if Celtic would be prepared to offer the job to Askou, considering the potential jump the manager would face.