🔗 Share this article

Both are being considered with the coaching position at the Scottish champions following Brendan Rodgers' resignation on the start of the week.

The Manager's Stance on Celtic

McKenna referred to Celtic as "a really big soccer institution" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.

The mid-thirties assumed control of Ipswich in 2021 and guided the team to the Premier League with consecutive elevations, but they won just a handful of victories last campaign as they were demoted back to the second division and they presently occupy 12th in the Championship.

"There have been any of those conversations," the London-born former Irish youth international said when asked about being on the candidate list.

"It's not something I have given any thought to, or where any portion of my concentration is currently.

"I have a unique job here at a remarkable team. And we're at a really important stage of the campaign. Anything outside of that hasn't reached my awareness."

Background and Agreement Details

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

"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about those. "It's unlikely all people has to publicly and announce what they were, but of course it's a really big sports organization."

McKenna agreed to a fresh four-year contract in 2024 and was questioned about his alleged £5m release clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are provisions," he replied. "I don't know what my specific terms are and, were I informed, I wouldn't disclose you regardless!

"I tackle this job like I'll be Ipswich manager indefinitely. I understand that's not always going to be the situation, but I will consistently do my best as long as I remain in position."

The Welsh Coach's Situation

Bellamy represented the Hoops on temporary transfer from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the former Wales forward is inclined to complete the ongoing global tournament campaign, a position that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from immediately taking the Celtic job.

The Welsh squad are presently third in their World Cup group behind leaders Belgium and second-placed North Macedonia.

Wins over Liechtenstein and North Macedonia in November would secure their position in the qualification play-offs, but they are all but guaranteed of reaching that stage, thanks to a productive Nations League performance, should they not end up their group second place.

Considering his current stance, the Wales manager, whose contract expires after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until following the play-offs at the minimum.

Key Points

• Kieran McKenna denies any talks with the Scottish club
• McKenna emphasizes dedication to his current club
• Craig Bellamy concentrated on international qualification
• Each managers linked with the Glasgow position
• The Welsh coach unavailable until post World Cup matches