No McKenna Celtic FC Discussions as Craig Bellamy Pledges to Welsh National Team
Ipswich's manager and Wales head coach have been linked with the Scottish champions vacancy
The Championship club's Kieran McKenna declares he has had "zero conversations" with Celtic about their managerial vacancy, while Wales head coach Craig Bellamy is dedicated to completing his team's international campaign.
Each are being considered with the coaching position at the Premiership title holders following Brendan Rodgers' departure on Monday.
McKenna's Position on The Scottish Club
McKenna referred to Celtic as "an enormous soccer institution" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "long-term project" with the Championship side.
The mid-thirties took charge of Portman Road in 2021 and led them to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, but they managed only four games last campaign as they were relegated back to the Championship and they presently occupy 12th in the Championship.
"There have been such conversations," the English capital native former Irish youth international said when questioned about being on the candidate list.
"This isn't a matter I have given any thought to, or where any part of my concentration is this week.
"I have a unique job here at a special club. And we're at a crucial phase of the season. Anything outside of that hasn't reached my awareness."
Context and Contractual Aspects
Reports indicate that McKenna would be open to speaking to the Scottish side given his boyhood allegiances.
"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when questioned about those. "It's unlikely all people has to go around and declare what they used to be, but naturally it's a really big football club."
McKenna signed a fresh four-year contract in 2024 and was asked about his reported £5m release clause.
"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he replied. "I don't know what mine are and, if I did, I wouldn't disclose you anyway!
"I approach this role like I'll be Town's coach indefinitely. I understand that's not invariably going to be the case, but I'll always do my best as long as I remain in position."
The Welsh Coach's Position
The former striker represented the Hoops on loan from the Magpies in 2005, but the former Wales forward is minded to complete the current World Cup qualification, a stance that would practically eliminate the 46-year-old from assuming the Celtic job.
The Welsh squad are presently third in their World Cup group behind group toppers the Red Devils and runners-up Macedonia.
Wins over Liechtenstein and their rivals in November would book their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but assured of making those, thanks to a successful Nations League campaign, even if they fail to finish as Group J second place.
Considering his present position, Bellamy, whose contract concludes after Euro 2028, would not be available until following the play-offs at the earliest.
Important Highlights
- Kieran McKenna refutes having talks with Celtic
- The coach stresses dedication to Ipswich Town
- Wales' manager focused on World Cup campaign
- Both managers connected with the Glasgow position
- The Welsh coach not free until after World Cup matches