In the event that Martin O’Neill declines, Mark Guidi has introduced his “two preferred candidates” to be the next Celtic manager.
After leading Celtic to significant victories over Falkirk in the league and the Bhoys defeating Rangers in the Premier Sports Cup over the weekend, O’Neill has given the team fresh energy.
When it appeared that Rangers could struggle as their form declined toward the conclusion of Brendan Rodgers’ tenure, Celtic defeated them handily under O’Neill.
However, as the debate over the next permanent manager continues, journalist Mark Guidi has revealed who he believes “will” take over as Celtic’s manager in the event that O’Neill is not hired on a full-time basis.
The “two preferred candidates” for Celtic are Kieran McKenna and Kjetil Knutsen.
A number of names have been floated for the Celtic manager position during the past several weeks.
Guidi has chosen two managers who will be hired if O’Neill decides he does not want to be the next permanent Celtic manager, but the club has not indicated who they have in mind.
“I do think that the two preferred candidates out of what Martin does are [Kjetil] Knutsen of Bodo/Glimt and Kieran McKenna, of which they are the two clear front runners for the job,” Guidi said on The Go Radio Football Show.
“Knutsen recently stated that he’s ready to go and try something different, and their season ends next month. I think Kieran McKenna wants the Celtic job.”
Therefore, Knutsen or McKenna will be Celtic’s new manager if Martin O’Neill is not chosen. However, Martin O’Neill is in charge, and it’s excellent. The appointment has been excellent.
“He’s got them going, and I must admit that I’m ecstatic for Martin O’Neill.” He is seventy-three years old. You know, it took a lot to take that on.
Kjetil Knutsen and Kieran McKenna’s managerial record amid Celtic rumours
Prior to the hiring of Brendan Rodgers in 2023, Kjetil was connected to the Celtic position. Oddly enough, Kieran McKenna was as well.
What actions have both managers taken during their careers to attract the Glasgow giants’ attention?
67 Hail Hail examines their present managerial record here:
| Record | Played | Won | Drew | Lost | Goals For/Against | Points per 90 |
| Knutsen (Bodo/Glimt | 300 | 208 | 72 | 70 | 835/411 | 1.99 |
| McKenna (Ipswich Town) | 187 | 87 | 50 | 50 | 336/238 | 1.66
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In addition to managing in the Champions League and leading the Norwegian team to the Europa League semifinals the previous season, Knutsen has won four league titles at Bodo/Glimt.
Although McKenna has not yet received any management awards, he has guided Ipswich from League One to the Premier League.
Which of the two would Celtic supporters favor?
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