Celtic finalise backroom staff after weeks of uncertainty

The Scottish champions finalise their coaching structure following delays and speculation over backroom staff agreements

Celtic have confirmed the appointment of Martin O’Neill’s backroom staff, several weeks after the Northern Irishman was unveiled as the club’s permanent manager.

Shaun Maloney, Mark Fotheringham and former captain Stephen McManus will all continue in their roles, working alongside O’Neill and the wider coaching team ahead of the new season.

The trio each played a key role in Celtic’s 2025/26 campaign, which saw the club secure a league and cup double, with both trophies sealed across the final two weekends of the season.

Their confirmation comes after a delay of more than two weeks following O’Neill’s appointment, during which reports had suggested that agreements with Maloney and Fotheringham had stalled due to financial considerations. The club has now formalised the coaching structure as preparations continue for the new campaign.

The announcement also follows the recent departure of first-team coach Gavin Strachan, who has left Celtic to take up a role at West Bromwich Albion.

Speaking after his backroom team was confirmed, Martin O’Neill said: “Everybody at the club played their part in our achievements last season and we now look ahead as again we strive together to bring our supporters more success.”