Ferencvaros Sporting Director on Robbie Keane to Celtic speculation

March 17, 2026 · Yahoo Sports

Ferencvaros sporting director Judit Berkesi has addressed growing speculation surrounding Robbie Keane’s future as reports continue to link him with a possible summer move to Celtic…

The former Ireland international was recently highlighted by The Guardian as one of the leading contenders to take over the managerial position at Celtic, with Martin O’Neill’s temporary spell in charge expected to conclude at the end of the season.

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Wales boss Craig Bellamy and Motherwell manager Jens Berthel Askou have also been mentioned among the potential candidates.

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Motherwell manager Jens Berthel Askou is seen during the Scottish Premiership match between Celtic and Motherwell at Celtic Park on March 14, 2026. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Speaking about the situation, Berkesi commended Keane for the work he has carried out since arriving in Hungary, outlining the progress made by the team in both domestic competitions and in the Europa League.

Speaking via SportEmberk, Berkesi said: “Of course, we talk about this, and he also openly and honestly tells us what the reality is in these cases. The other thing is that it’s completely normal when someone does such a good job as he does.

Robbie Keane, Head Coach of Ferencvarosi TC, looks on prior to the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD8 match between Nottingham Forest FC and Ferencvarosi TC at City Ground on January 29, 2026 in Nottingham, England. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)

“The performance we have delivered in international [Europa League] matches this year is special, somewhat normal, that such a personality, with a great football career as a player in the most advanced or strongest league in the world, and now choosing a different coaching career, moving out of his comfort zone, already did a good and effective job under difficult circumstances at Maccabi [Tel Aviv].

“He also entered a difficult situation with us, because in January, when you don’t have much time to form your team or implement the playing style and philosophy that you want, he solved that well.”

“This is actually the club’s merit in this respect, that we are already at a point where we can sell not only players well in certain cases, but also head coaches in the last two cases.”

Berkesi added: “And it is certain that this possibility may also exist with Robbie in certain cases, even though he feels very good here, can really work in very good conditions, receives all the support that is possible, and the coaches can appreciate this as well.”

“So this is the situation for now. The search for a coach should always be ongoing. But there is no current interest right now. But, keeping an open mind, thinking and discussing certain things within the management, that is part of our job, but we hope that Robbie will stay with us for a very long time.”

Conor Spence

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