CELTIC have faced backlash from fans after it emerged Robbie Keane, who managed an Israeli team during the genocide in Gaza, is a frontrunner to be the Glasgow club’s new manager.
The 45-year-old, who played for Celtic in 2010, had previously also faced criticism in his native Ireland over his decision to remain in charge of Maccabi Tel Aviv following Israel’s war in Gaza in the wake of the October 7 attacks in 2023.
When Keane was appointed to the club in June 2023, he said he did not want to “get into politics” and that he was there as a “football man”.
During his time in charge of Maccabi Tel Aviv, it was reported that the team's players were shown “inspirational” messages from the Israel Defense Forces, according to Scottish Sport for Palestine.
When he left Maccabi Tel Aviv in June 2024, Keane went on to say: “I want to thank the owners, all the players, the coaches, and the fans for making this season unforgettable.”
Since it has emerged that Keane is one of the leading alternatives to Martin O’Neill, who guided Celtic to win both the Scottish Premiership and Scottish Cup, there has been vocal opposition from some Celtic fans to his potential appointment as the team's manager.
Celtic Fans For The Liberation Of Palestine (CFLP) released a statement on Tuesday, which said they “oppose” the proposed appointment of Keane due to his ties with Maccabi Tel Aviv.
“Celtic supporters have a long and proud history of solidarity with the Palestinian people,” the statement said.
“For us, Robbie Keane’s decision to manage Maccabi Tel Aviv during the genocide in Gaza is impossible to ignore.
“To choose to manage a club in Israel while, less than 40 miles away, the same country was using indiscriminate weapons of mass murder against a defenceless people is unconscionable.”
CFLP’s statement added that Celtic was founded by a “community shaped by the legacy of genocide, displacement and famine”.
The statement continued: “Our club’s roots lie in solidarity with those who suffered injustice and oppression. We cannot forget where we came from, nor turn our backs on those facing genocide today.
“At a time when Celtic requires unity and collective purpose, this appointment would be deeply divisive among the support. It would also represent a predictable and uninspiring choice at a moment when greater ambition is needed.”
CFLP went on to urge the Celtic board to “listen to supporters’ concerns” and to reconsider the appointment of Keane.
The former Tottenham and Liverpool forward is currently available after leaving Hungarian side Ferencvaros in May, having spent 17 months in charge.
Keane guided the club to the league title in his first season before finishing second behind Gyor in his only full season in charge.
Celtic have been approached for comment.
