Brugge boss Nicky Hayen responds to Celtic speculation

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The Celtic Star

·6 November 2025

Brugge boss Nicky Hayen responds to Celtic speculation

Club Brugge manager Nicky Hayen insists the idea of being approached by Celtic to succeed Brendan Rodgers hasn’t crossed his mind…

Brendan Rodgers, Manager of Celtic greets Nicky Hayen, Head Coach of Club Brugge KV, ahead of the UEFA Champions League match between Celtic FC and Club Brugge KV at Celtic Park on November 27, 2024. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images

Celtic are still searching for a permanent manager, while club icon Martin O’Neill currently oversees the team on a temporary basis. Hayen has emerged as a leading contender for the role after steering Club Brugge to both the Belgian league championship and a domestic cup triumph at the age of 45.

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During a Belgian television interview, he was once more questioned about Celtic’s rumoured interest and was asked outright whether Brugge’s Champions League clash against Barcelona may have been his last game in charge of the club.

Nicky Hayen, head coach of Club Brugge talking to the press during a press conference, PK, Pressekonferenz ahead of the UEFA Champions League match between Celtic and Club Brugge on November 26, 2024. Photo: Peter De Voecht

Hayen’s men almost produced an historic victory over Barcelona last night but had to settle for a 3-3 draw despite having a last-minute winner being ruled out from VAR.

Hayen said via Sport Witness: “I haven’t thought about it for a second. I have someone who looks after my interests and who knows exactly when to inform me. That’s not on the agenda yet.”

Nicky Hayen, head coach of Club Brugge pictured at the Ostend-Bruges airport before departure for the UEFA Champions League match between Celtic and Club Brugge on November 26, 2024. Photo Peter De Voecht

The 45-year-old previously spent time in Wales managing Haverfordwest County before heading back to Belgium, and the mentor who first launched his career believes he is perfectly suited for a future at Liverpool.

Speaking to sport.es Haverfordwest County Chairman Rob Edwards said: “He presented his project to us, and we simply wanted to hear every word he said.”

Nicky Hayen, head coach of Club Brugge arrives at the press during a press conference, PK, Pressekonferenz ahead of the UEFA Champions League match between Celtic and Club Brugge on November 26, 2024. Photo: Peter De Voecht

“The guy was a workaholic. You could see it in the impact he had on the players. He dedicated his time to getting to know them. He was very methodical. He asked about their well-being; he was also concerned about the mental aspect of the game.”

Edwards added: “He was very calm. He wasn’t one of those who shouted in the locker room; he spoke and was heard. Despite not being the loudest or most aggressive, he had a special aura.”

“He’s a family man, doesn’t drink, and doesn’t use social media. He simply focuses on his work. I think Nicky Hayen will replace Arne Slot as Liverpool manager within two years.”

Conor Spence

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Celtic in the Eighties and Willie Fernie – Putting on the Style both by David Potter. Photo The Celtic Star

Danny McGrain signing copies of Celtic in the Eighties by David Potter. Photo: Celtic Star Books