Sources: This is why Roberto Martinez could accept Celtic manager offer
Roberto Martinez’s relationship with Shaun Maloney could be crucial to help Celtic land him as their next permanent manager, sources have told Football Insider.
Maloney worked alongside the Spaniard during his time as boss of the Belgium national team, and their previous relationship is expected to play a key role in potentially tempting the 52-year-old to take the reins at Celtic Park.
Football Insider revealed on Monday that Celtic are willing to wait until after the World Cup to have the chance to appoint Martinez, who is due to take charge of Portugal at next summer’s tournament.
His contract with the Portuguese Football Federation is set to expire at the end of the competition, and Celtic are hoping that Martinez sees it as the right time to return to club management.
Shaun Maloney in a critical position at Parkhead
Former Aberdeen chief executive Keith Wyness recently told Football Insider that he expects Maloney to be in contention for the Celtic manager’s job himself when it comes to naming the next permanent appointment.
The 42-year-old is now back as the assistant to Martin O’Neill until the end of the season, having also briefly held the role during the veteran’s previous stint in charge at the end of 2025.
Regardless of whether he is considered for the top job in the coming months, Maloney looks set to play a critical role at Celtic over the next few months.
Maloney initially joined as the Bhoys’ player pathway manager, but has since risen through the ranks to a position where he could potentially influence the board’s next move.
The former midfielder even played under Martinez at Wigan Athletic, and their strong relationship could be a major factor when it comes to trying to tempt him to take the reins.
The ex-Scotland international is almost certain to occupy a key position at the club under the next regime, irrespective of what his exact job title becomes.
Celtic to ‘trust Martin O’Neill’s judgement’ for January signings
Wyness also told Football Insider that he expects Celtic to “trust O’Neill’s judgement” for their January signings, as they prepare for a three-horse title race in the Premiership.
The interim boss has already made it clear that he has little intention of staying in his post beyond the end of his current agreement, but he could still play a key role in their fortunes for next season and beyond.
The Bhoys need significant additions this month if they are to beat Hearts and Rangers to the title, and strong recruitment will also see them well-placed for future campaigns, both on and off the pitch.
O’Neill is treasured by the fans and board alike, and Wyness thinks that it would benefit them to place their faith in his eye for a player across the remainder of the January window.