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

Soccer Managerial News

Kieran McKenna and Wales head coach have been linked with the Scottish champions manager position

Ipswich Town's their manager declares he has had "no conversations" with Celtic about their managerial vacancy, while Wales head coach Craig Bellamy is dedicated to seeing out his squad's World Cup campaign.

Each have been linked 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 referred to Celtic as "a really big soccer institution" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.

The mid-thirties assumed control of Ipswich in 2021 and led them to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they managed only a handful of victories last campaign as they were relegated back to the Championship and they presently occupy 12th in the Championship.

"I have not had any of those conversations," the English capital native ex- Northern Ireland young player said when asked about being on the candidate list.

"This isn't a matter I have considered seriously, or where any portion of my focus is currently.

"I have a special position here at a special team. And we're at a crucial phase of the season. Anything outside of that hasn't reached my radar."

Background and Contractual Details

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

"Growing up, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about these. "It's unlikely everyone has to publicly and declare what they were, but naturally it's a really big sports organization."

McKenna agreed to a fresh four-year contract in 2024 and was questioned about his alleged buyout clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he replied. "I'm unaware what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you regardless!

"I tackle this job like I will remain Town's coach indefinitely. I know that's not always going to be the situation, but I will consistently do my best as while I am here."

The Welsh Coach's Position

Bellamy represented Celtic on loan from the Magpies in 2005, but the former Wales striker is minded to complete the current World Cup campaign, a stance that would practically eliminate the mid-forties from assuming the Celtic job.

Wales are currently in third place in their qualifying group behind group toppers Belgium and second-placed North Macedonia.

Victories over the minnows and their rivals in next month would book their place in the final qualifying round, but they are all but guaranteed of reaching that stage, due to a successful European competition campaign, should they fail to end up Group J second place.

Given his present stance, the Wales manager, whose contract concludes after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until after the play-offs at the earliest.

Important Highlights

  • Kieran McKenna denies any talks with Celtic
  • The coach stresses dedication to his current club
  • Wales' manager focused on World Cup campaign
  • Both managers linked with the Glasgow vacancy
  • Bellamy not free until post World Cup matches
Mr. Jose Johnson DVM
Mr. Jose Johnson DVM

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