No Kieran McKenna Celtic Discussions as Craig Bellamy Commits to Wales

Football Coaching Updates

Kieran McKenna and Craig Bellamy have been connected with the Celtic manager position

Ipswich Town's Kieran McKenna says he has had "zero conversations" with Celtic about their coaching position, while Wales head coach Craig Bellamy is dedicated to seeing out his team's World Cup campaign.

Both are being considered with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following the former manager's departure on the start of the week.

McKenna's Stance on The Scottish Club

The Ipswich boss described the Glasgow giants as "a really big soccer institution" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with Ipswich Town.

The 39-year-old assumed control of Portman Road 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 relegated back to the second division and they presently occupy 12th in England's second tier.

"There have been such discussions," the London-born ex- Northern Ireland young player said when questioned about being on the candidate list.

"It's not something I have given any thought to, or where any part of my concentration is currently.

"I have a unique job here at a remarkable club. And we're at a really important stage of the season. Everything external hasn't touched my radar."

Background and Contractual Details

It has been suggested that McKenna would be open to speaking to the Scottish side given his childhood support.

"During youth, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about those. "I don't think all people has to publicly and announce what they were, but naturally it's a really big football club."

McKenna signed a fresh four-year contract in 2024 and was questioned about his reported buyout clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he replied. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!

"I approach this job like I will remain Town's coach forever. I understand that's not always going to be the case, but I will consistently do my best as long as I am here."

The Welsh Coach's Position

Bellamy represented the Hoops on loan from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the former Welsh forward is minded to complete the current global tournament qualification, a stance that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from immediately taking the Celtic job.

The Welsh squad are presently in third place in their World Cup group behind group toppers Belgium and runners-up Macedonia.

Wins over Liechtenstein and their rivals in next month would book their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually guaranteed of reaching that stage, due to a successful Nations League campaign, even if they fail to finish as their group runners-up.

Considering his current stance, Bellamy, whose contract expires after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until after the play-offs at the earliest.

Key Points

  • Kieran McKenna denies any conversations with the Scottish club
  • The coach stresses commitment to Ipswich Town
  • Wales' manager concentrated on World Cup campaign
  • Each coaches linked with the Glasgow vacancy
  • Bellamy unavailable until after tournament qualifiers
Jeanette Morrison
Jeanette Morrison

A passionate gamer and tech enthusiast with over a decade of experience in reviewing and analyzing the latest video games and gaming hardware.