Martin O'Neill, recently appointed as Celtic's permanent manager, is pushing for clarity on his coaching staff as he prepares for the upcoming season.
Why it matters: O'Neill's decisions on his coaching staff could significantly impact Celtic's performance in the new season. With key figures in limbo, the club's direction remains uncertain.
O'Neill was unveiled as Celtic's manager on a one-year deal after leading the team to a Premiership and Scottish Cup double.
Shaun Maloney and Mark Fotheringham have been offered cut-price deals to join O'Neill's backroom staff, but their futures are still unresolved.
Maloney previously acted as O'Neill's No. 2 during his interim spells last season, raising questions about his potential new role at the club.
Driving the news: The club has remained silent since offering contracts to Maloney and Fotheringham, leaving fans and analysts speculating about their roles.
Reports indicate that both coaches were presented with take-it-or-leave-it deals, prompting concerns over their commitment to the club.
Insider Grant, who works with Celtic TV, believes the board will meet most of O'Neill's demands, including a transfer budget.
"I don't think Martin would have taken it without guarantees," Grant said, emphasizing O'Neill's expectations for team improvements.
The big picture: The uncertainty surrounding O'Neill's coaching staff coincides with other notable changes at Celtic.
Gavin Strachan, a long-serving coach, is reportedly in talks with West Bromwich Albion, which could end his six-year tenure at Celtic.
Meanwhile, Efraín Juárez, a former Celtic player, has officially taken over as manager of Hungarian champions Győri ETO, eliminating speculation about his involvement with Celtic.
Juárez spent two years at Celtic from 2010 to 2012, making 20 appearances before moving to CF América.
What they're saying: The discussions around the coaching staff highlight varying opinions within the football community.
Grant expressed confidence in O'Neill's ability to secure the necessary support, stating, "I'm sure he will get 90% of the things he is looking for."
Fans and analysts are eager to see how O'Neill will navigate the challenges of reshaping the coaching team.
With the summer transfer window now open, clarity on the coaching staff is increasingly urgent for recruitment and pre-season preparations.
By the numbers: The coaching changes at Celtic represent a shift in strategy as the club aims to build on last season's success.
O'Neill's appointment follows a successful campaign where Celtic secured both the Premiership and Scottish Cup titles.
Strachan's potential departure marks a notable change, as he has been part of the club's coaching structure for six years.
Juárez's move to Hungary reflects the growing trend of former players transitioning into coaching roles internationally.
What's next: The coming weeks will be decisive as O'Neill works to finalize his coaching staff.
Celtic's board is expected to make announcements soon, clarifying the future of Maloney and Fotheringham.
With the transfer window open, O'Neill's decisions will influence recruitment strategies and player signings.
Fans are eagerly awaiting updates as the club prepares for the new season, hoping for a strong start under O'Neill's leadership.