No Kieran McKenna Celtic Discussions as Craig Bellamy Pledges to Wales

Soccer Managerial Updates

Ipswich's manager and Wales head coach have been linked with the Celtic vacancy

Ipswich Town's Kieran McKenna declares he has had "no discussions" with Celtic about their managerial vacancy, while Welsh head coach the former striker is dedicated to seeing out his squad's international campaign.

Each are being considered with the manager's job at the Premiership title holders following the former manager's resignation on Monday.

McKenna's Position on The Scottish Club

The Ipswich boss referred to Celtic as "an enormous soccer institution" but stressed he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with Ipswich Town.

The mid-thirties assumed control of Ipswich in 2021 and guided the team to the English top flight with back-to-back promotions, but they managed only four games last season as they were relegated back to the second division and they currently sit twelfth place in England's second tier.

"There have been 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 part of my focus is currently.

"I have a unique job here at a special club. And we're at a crucial stage of the season. Anything outside of that hasn't touched my radar."

Background and Agreement Details

Reports indicate that the manager would be willing to talk to the Scottish side given his boyhood allegiances.

"During youth, we all have our affinities," he said when asked about those. "It's unlikely everyone has to go around and declare what they were, but naturally it's a really big sports organization."

McKenna agreed to a new multi-year deal in 2024 and was questioned about his reported £5m release clause.

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

"I approach this role like I will remain Ipswich manager forever. I understand that's not always going to be the situation, but I'll always do my best as long as I am here."

The Welsh Coach's Situation

Bellamy played for Celtic on loan from Newcastle United in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Welsh forward is minded to complete the current global tournament qualification, a stance that would effectively rule out the 46-year-old from assuming the Glasgow position.

Wales are presently third in their World Cup group behind leaders Belgium and runners-up Macedonia.

Victories over Liechtenstein and their rivals in November would book their place in the final qualifying round, but they are virtually assured of making those, due to a successful Nations League performance, even if they fail to end up their group runners-up.

Considering his current stance, Bellamy, whose contract concludes after Euro 2028, would be unavailable until following the qualifying matches at the earliest.

Key Highlights

  • Kieran McKenna refutes any conversations with Celtic
  • The coach stresses dedication to his current club
  • Wales' manager concentrated on international qualification
  • Both managers connected with the Glasgow vacancy
  • Bellamy not free until after World Cup qualifiers
Michael Valenzuela
Michael Valenzuela

Elara Vance is a software engineer and tech journalist passionate about open source ecosystems and developer advocacy.

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