6 days ago
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Martin O’Neill has returned to Celtic as manager until the end of the season following the dismissal of Wilfried Nancy.
The Northern Irishman steps back into the role for a second time this campaign as the club attempt to steady a season marked by repeated upheaval.
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Nancy was dismissed earlier today after losing six of his eight matches in charge, bringing his reign to an end after just 33 days.
His brief tenure is the shortest permanent managerial spell in Celtic’s history, lasting four days fewer than O’Neill’s initial interim stint earlier in the season.
Celtic’s decision to act followed Saturday’s 3-1 Old Firm defeat at home to Rangers, which proved to be Nancy’s final match.
O’Neill had originally been appointed on a temporary basis in October after Brendan Rodgers resigned to take up a role in the Saudi Pro League.
During that spell, the 73-year-old won seven of his eight matches, restoring momentum and stability before making way for Nancy in December.
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Celtic have now turned back to a familiar figure as they look to rescue their domestic campaign.
O’Neill previously enjoyed a highly successful first spell at the club between 2000 and 2005, winning seven major trophies.
He will be supported by Shaun Maloney, Mark Fotheringham and Stephen McManus, all of whom played under him during that earlier period.
The trio will join the existing coaching staff as Celtic attempt to regroup during the second half of the season.
The club have also confirmed the departure of Paul Tisdale, who had been serving as head of football operations.
Celtic remain firmly in the title race despite recent instability, but face a significant challenge to reclaim top spot.
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Hearts currently sit six points clear at the summit of the Scottish Premiership, with Celtic and Rangers level on points and goal difference behind them.
The return of O’Neill is viewed internally as a move to re-establish focus and authority during a decisive stretch of the campaign.
Celtic stated that O’Neill’s appointment runs until the end of the season, with further decisions to be taken in due course.
The club’s hierarchy have called for unity among supporters as they attempt to generate momentum on and off the pitch.
O’Neill now faces the task of lifting morale and translating familiarity into results as Celtic look to salvage silverware.
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