Robbie Keane faces boycott from 67 Celtics fan groups

Irish football legend Robbie Keane has recently emerged as a leading candidate to take over the first team at Scottish Premiership giants Celtic.

However, this potential appointment has sparked a strong backlash among fans. Because Keane previously managed Maccabi Tel Aviv in Israel, dozens of Celtic supporter groups have signed a joint statement strongly opposing his appointment as manager of the club.

Currently, 67 groups, including extreme fan organizations such as the Green Brigade, have publicly voiced their support for the boycott statement. Graffiti and banners opposing Keane have also appeared outside Celtic Park.

The joint statement noted that the Celtic club was founded by communities deeply affected by genocide and displacement and is rooted in solidarity with the oppressed.

Following the outbreak of the Gaza conflict, Keane's decision to remain coaching an Israeli club less than 40 miles from the conflict zone was described as "against his conscience" and cannot be ignored. Fans warned that appointing Keane at this time would cause serious divisions among supporters.

The 45-year-old Keane took over Maccabi Tel Aviv in June 2023 and resigned in the summer of 2024 after leading the team to a double title.

Facing criticism from within Ireland and from fans, Keane explained that he stayed behind to fulfill his responsibility to care for the accompanying coaching staff and did not want to abandon them and their families during a crisis. Currently, the Celtic board has not issued an official response to the fans' protests.

Image source: Internet/BBC official website