Who's the betting favourite to replace Wilfried Nancy following Celtic's Old Firm Derby defeat to Rangers?
Many believe the writing is on the wall for Celtic manager Wilfried Nancy following his side's 3-1 home defeat to arch rivals, Rangers.
Since joining Celtic on 3rd December, the Hoops have suffered defeats to Hearts, Roma, St. Mirren (League Cup Final), Dundee United, Motherwell, and now Rangers.
Before Hearts play at 3pm on Satuday, Celtic are four points behind in the title race, with Hearts having a game in hand over their Glasweigan rivals.
We run through some of the contenders to replace Wilfried Nancy, if he was to face the sack following the Old Firm defeat.
Who is the betting favourite to be next Celtic manager?
| Next Celtic Manager Odds | Best Odds | Bookmaker |
|---|---|---|
| Shaun Maloney | 2/1 | BetVictor |
| Martin O'Neill | 10/3 | Sky Bet |
| Gary O'Neil | 5/1 | BetVictor |
| Kjetil Knutsen | 10/1 | BetVictor |
| Ange Postecoglu | 10/1 | BetVictor |
*Next Celtic Manager Odds last updated at 18:00, Saturday 3rd January.
Shaun Maloney
Shaun Maloney is part of the conversation largely because of his deep Celtic connection. A former Celtic captain and Scotland international, Maloney moved into coaching after retiring, with spells at Hibernian and Wigan Athletic — notably keeping Wigan in League One despite a heavy points deduction before his dismissal in March 2025.
He returned to Celtic in June 2025 as player pathway manager and has since been involved with the first-team setup, even stepping up in an interim capacity alongside Martin O’Neill late in 2025.
At 2/1, his odds reflect a strong market belief that Celtic could opt for continuity and internal familiarity — even if his managerial résumé isn’t yet as extensive as some rivals.
Martin O’Neill
Martin O'Neill delivered some of the club’s most memorable years as manager between 2000–05 — winning multiple league titles and domestic cups, and famously taking Celtic to the 2003 UEFA Cup Final.
In late 2025, O’Neill returned as interim boss, stabilising results with 7 wins from 8 games before Wilfried Nancy’s appointment.
His experience, gravitas and huge support among the fanbase make him a compelling favourite — particularly if Celtic opt for a steady hand with instant credibility.
Midnite
Gary O’Neil
The 42-year-old Gary O'Neil has managed in the Premier League with the likes of Bournemouth and Wolves, keeping Bournemouth up in 2022–23 and guiding Wolves to a mid-table finish and an FA Cup quarter-final.
His record is mixed — more project than proven winner — but he ticks the box as a young manager with experience at the highest domestic level.
It’s worth stressing that his link to Celtic is primarily betting market-driven rather than confirmed reports; if Celtic wanted a coach with Premier League experience and tactical flexibility, he’s one of the names bookmakers have latched onto.
Kjetil Knutsen
Kjetil Knutsen elevated Bodø/Glimt to sustained success, winning multiple Eliteserien titles and masterminding an impressive Europa League run — notably breaking new ground for Norwegian clubs in Europe.
Known for an attacking, possession-based style and a strong track record of player development, Knutsen appeals to those who want a modern football brain at Celtic.
Ange Postecoglou
Ange Postecoglu was a huge success in his first Celtic spell (2021–23), winning multiple league titles and cups with an expansive, attacking style that won over fans.
Since leaving Parkhead, he’s had mixed fortunes abroad — winning the Europa League with Tottenham Hotspur but also enduring a brief, difficult stint at Nottingham Forest in 2025.
His odds reflect strong narrative appeal and fan desire for a return.
Keep up with the latest odds movements in the Next Celtic Manager market HERE.
