Portugal boss Roberto Martinez parks Celtic speculation until after World Cup

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·20 Maret 2026

Portugal boss Roberto Martinez parks Celtic speculation until after World Cup

Roberto Martinez has addressed ongoing speculation surrounding his future amid continued links with a potential move to Celtic…

Belgium assistant coach Shaun Maloney and Belgium’s head coach Roberto Martinez pictured during a training session of the Belgian national soccer team Red Devils, in Tubize, Tuesday 15 June 2021.

The current Portugal manager has frequently been mentioned among the frontrunners for the Celtic role, particularly with his contract set to run down following this summer’s World Cup.

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His previous working relationship with Celtic assistant Shaun Maloney has only fuelled suggestions that a reunion in Glasgow could be on the cards.

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However, Martinez has now made it clear that any discussions over his next move will be put on hold until after the World Cup, with his full attention fixed on Portugal’s preparations.

Speaking during his latest squad announcement, he said via Daily Record: “The future of the head coach is not important. What matters is the World Cup. The World Cup cannot wait, the coach’s future can, and it can be discussed after the tournament. The president and I are aligned; the focus is the World Cup.

“When there are good results, which is our case, because fortunately the Portuguese national team wins a lot, then it’s normal that I’ve had some. It’s not a taboo subject, but now we are aligned to try to do everything we can to prepare our national team for the World Cup. That’s the focus.

“We are all together in the federation for the same objective, which is to fight in the same way for the World Cup.”

Martinez’s name has also surfaced in connection with several Premier League vacancies, including the soon-to-be available position at Crystal Palace, while interest from the Saudi Pro League has also been suggested.

Despite that, his previous interview for the Celtic job and personal ties to Scotland – through his Scottish wife – continue to make him a relevant figure in the conversation for the job.

Having spent the past decade in international management – first with Belgium and now Portugal – Martinez brings extensive experience at the top level of the game.

Celtic manager Martin O’Neill and Shaun Maloney look on during the Scottish Premiership match between Celtic and Motherwell at Celtic Park on March 14, 2026. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Meanwhile, uncertainty remains over the long-term future of Martin O’Neill at Celtic. While he has not completely ruled out staying on, indications so far suggest he is reluctant to take the role permanently.

Should that stance remain unchanged, other candidates are expected to come into focus. Jens Berthel Askou is viewed as a strong option given his eye-catching footballing philosophy and familiarity with the Scottish game.

Motherwell manager Jens Berthel Askou is seen during the Scottish Premiership match between Celtic and Motherwell at Celtic Park on March 14, 2026. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Elsewhere, former Celtic striker Robbie Keane has also been heavily linked, with some reports suggesting he could be the leading contender.

Robbie Keane, Head Coach of Ferencvaros (R), looks on prior to the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD3 match between FC Salzburg and Ferencvarosi TC at Stadion Salzburg on October 23, 2025 in Salzburg, Austria. (Photo by Adam Pretty/Getty Images)

Craig Bellamy is another name in the frame, although his involvement with Wales could extend into the summer if they successfully navigate their upcoming World Cup play-offs, potentially complicating any immediate move.

Conor Spence

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