No Kieran McKenna Celtic FC Talks as Craig Bellamy Commits to Wales

Both have been linked with the manager's job at the Scottish champions following the former manager's resignation on Monday.

McKenna's Position on The Scottish Club

The Ipswich boss referred to Celtic as "a really big soccer institution" but stressed he is "deeply involved" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.

The 39-year-old took charge of Ipswich in recent years and guided the team to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they managed only a handful of victories last campaign as they were demoted back to the Championship and they currently sit twelfth place in the Championship.

"I have not had any of those conversations," the London-born former Irish youth international said when questioned about being on the candidate list.

"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any part of my focus is currently.

"I have a special position here at a remarkable team. And we're at a really important stage of the campaign. Everything outside of that hasn't touched my awareness."

Background and Agreement Aspects

Reports indicate that McKenna would be open to speaking to the Scottish side given his boyhood allegiances.

"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about these. "I don't think everyone has to go around and declare what they were, but naturally it's a really big sports organization."

The coach agreed to a fresh multi-year deal in 2024 and was questioned about his reported buyout clause.

"In every manager's contract, there are things," he replied. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!

"I tackle this job like I'll be Ipswich manager indefinitely. I know that's not always going to be the situation, but I will consistently do my best as long as I am here."

Bellamy's Position

Bellamy played for Celtic on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the former Welsh striker is inclined to finish the ongoing World Cup campaign, a stance that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from assuming the Celtic job.

Wales are currently in third place in their qualifying group behind group toppers the Red Devils and runners-up Macedonia.

Wins over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in next month would secure their position in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually guaranteed of making those, due to a productive Nations League campaign, even if they fail to end up their group runners-up.

Given his present stance, the Wales manager, whose contract expires after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until following the qualifying matches at the earliest.

Important Highlights

• Kieran McKenna denies having talks with the Scottish club
• McKenna emphasizes dedication to Ipswich Town
• Craig Bellamy focused on international campaign
• Both coaches linked with Celtic vacancy
• The Welsh coach unavailable until after tournament matches