Shaun Maloney on Martinez to Celtic rumour and Arne Engels injury | OneFootball

Shaun Maloney has addressed speculation suggesting Roberto Martinez could be a contender for the Celtic managerial position…

Martin O’Neill and Shaun Maloney, Auchinleck Talbot v Celtic, Scottish Cup 4th Round, Rugby Park. Sunday 18 January 2026. Photo Vagelis Georgariou ( The Celtic Star)

Martinez is currently overseeing the Portugal national side as they build towards this summer’s World Cup, with his current deal set to expire at the end of the tournament.

In the meantime, Martin O’Neill and Maloney are guiding Celtic through to the end of the season, while the board assess longer-term options.

Maloney previously worked under Martinez at Wigan Athletic before reuniting with him on the coaching staff of Belgium’s national team, maintaining a strong professional relationship over the years.

Sean Maloney arrives at the Falkirk Stadium. Falkirk v Celtic, Scottish Premiership, Falkirk Stadium, 14 January 2026. Photo Vagelis Georgariou

Now serving as Celtic’s assistant, Maloney confirmed he remains in contact with Martinez but insisted their conversations have not touched on the vacancy at the Hoops.

Responding to questions about the speculation, he told Sky Sports: “Zero. I still speak to Roberto, but it is mainly on how he is preparing for a massive World Cup with Portugal. Nothing on that from my side.”

“It is so far away from what myself, Martin, and the rest of the guys are thinking. I am pretty sure the board already started to make plans for that. For the rest of us, every three days there is a game. We just came out of a window. It is just game after game at the moment.”

When pressed on whether he would attempt to convince Martinez to make the move to Glasgow, Maloney said: “No, that is definitely above my pay grade. I will just concentrate on trying to make the team better, help recruitment as much as I can, and leave those big decisions to the key guys.”

Maloney was also asked about Arne Engels’ injury situation after the Belgian worryingly was pictured with crutches after the game on Wednesday night.

Arne Engels of Celtic has a shot on goal. Celtic v Livingston, Scottish Premiership, 11 Feb rural 2026. Photo Mark Runnacles IMAGO Shutterstock

He responded: “Still a bit soon. That is a shame. Arne has been a standout for us since we have come back. I think that probably makes the Alex signing even more important.

“Luke McCowan was brilliant against Dundee. The squad is in a good shape. Hopefully, Arne is not too long.”

Conor Spence

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