Martin O’Neill takes on new role as Celtic manager Wilfried Nancy reaches decision on his future

Martin O’Neill had previously hinted that he might remain involved at Celtic following his short interim spell in charge, but those hopes have taken a hit after the Parkhead legend secured a new punditry role.

The former Celtic boss wrapped up his temporary return to the dugout with a 1–0 win over Dundee, handing the reins to new manager Wilfried Nancy ahead of a demanding run of fixtures — including a top-of-the-table clash with Hearts, a Europa League meeting with Roma, and the Premier Sports Cup final against St Mirren.

While Nancy prepares for a hectic introduction, O’Neill is wasting no time returning to football in a different capacity.

The 73-year-old was on duty for the international broadcast of Aston Villa vs Arsenal on Saturday. The ex-Villa manager didn’t hold back in his analysis, criticising several Arsenal players — particularly Noni Madueke — after the Gunners’ 18-game unbeaten streak was ended by a stoppage-time winner from Emiliano Buendía. Sitting alongside Ian Wright, O’Neill argued that Arsenal failed to manage the game properly in the closing stages.

Despite being open to the idea of a new role at Celtic, O’Neill recently admitted that any decision about his future at the club rests entirely with Nancy.

“It’s up to the manager,” O’Neill said. “He should have full freedom to choose his own staff, and anything football-related should be his call.”

Nancy confirmed that he spoke with O’Neill during the transition and praised him for the job he did. The Frenchman said he valued O’Neill’s insight but has assembled his own backroom team, with Gavin Strachan and Steve Woods returning and new additions Kwame Ampadu, Jules Gueguen, and Maxime Chalier arriving from Columbus Crew.

Shaun Maloney, who assisted O’Neill during the interim period, is expected to resume his previous role as Professional Player Pathway Manager.

With O’Neill now back in media work and Nancy moving forward with his chosen staff, any potential new position for the Celtic icon appears to be on hold for the foreseeable future.