Celtic Next Manager Odds – Former Premier League Boss Tops List

Former boss Ange Postecoglou has emerged as the early favourite to return to Celtic following Brendan Rodgers’ shock resignation at Parkhead.

The Australian coach, who guided the club to back-to-back titles and a domestic treble, is currently out of work after his brief spell at Nottingham Forest. His departure from the City Ground earlier this month has opened the door to an emotional reunion with the Scottish champions, who are once again searching for direction after a turbulent few weeks in the Scottish Premiership.

Kieran McKenna is also getting plenty of backing, but Ange appears to be the one closest to the job.

Postecoglou the early frontrunner

Postecoglou has been priced as odds-on favourite across several major bookmakers, including Coral and Bet365. His popularity among supporters, combined with his past success in Glasgow, makes him the standout name in a crowded field. During his first stint, he delivered five trophies from six possible and transformed Celtic’s attacking identity with his high-tempo, possession-based football.

Even after his short and chaotic Premier League tenure, many fans still regard him as the man capable of restoring unity after Rodgers’ divisive exit.

Speaking to the media, betting expert Steve Freeth described the night of Rodgers’ departure as “stormy and interesting,” suggesting that Postecoglou could be tempted back sooner than expected. After the 3–1 defeat at Hearts ended his successor’s second reign, the idea of the Australian’s homecoming has gained momentum on both sides of the border.

Other names in contention

While Postecoglou sits at the top of the odds list, several familiar figures are also in contention. Former player Robbie Keane is priced at 3–1 after impressing during his stint with Ferencváros. Ex-Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer remains an outsider at 6–1, while interim coaches Martin O’Neill and Shaun Maloney are both available at longer odds. Norwegian tactician Kjetil Knutsen and former Celtic winger Damien Duff have also been discussed among the bookmakers as potential options.

Coral’s spokesperson John Hill noted that betting patterns show significant backing for the Australian, saying, “Postecoglou has been heavily supported to return to Celtic Park, and punters clearly believe he could be back in the dugout very soon.” Despite that, O’Neill’s interim spell could yet be extended if results stabilise over the coming weeks in both the league and the Europa League.

The final decision rests with major shareholder Dermot Desmond, who accused Rodgers of creating a “toxic atmosphere” during his final months in charge. The board is expected to move quickly, with crucial fixtures against Rangers and Aberdeen looming in early November. For now, the odds point clearly toward Postecoglou — the coach who delivered modernisation, trophies, and perhaps most importantly, belief — returning to a club that never truly stopped singing his name.