Ferencvárosi manager Robbie Keane addressed recent speculation linking him with Celtic, reflected on his Old Firm experiences, praised his coaching partnership with Stephen Glass, and discussed the possibility of managing a major club in the future.
Recent reports tied Keane to Celtic’s managerial shortlist before the Hoops appointed Wilfried Nancy, but he made his position on his future crystal clear.
He said: “I’m very happy here. It’s been a really good, successful year.
“We won the league, we’re doing well in Europe, we’re at the top of the league.”
Keane also referenced advice from Sir Alex Ferguson that shaped his outlook on career decisions.
“Sir Alex always told me: don’t just go to a club because of the people who run it,” he explained.
Here, the president and sporting director have been fantastic. I couldn’t be happier.”
Keane spoke warmly about his brief spell at Celtic in 2010, particularly the intensity of Old Firm derbies.
He said: “As an Irishman, the Celtic–Rangers games were special.
“The atmosphere was electric. We lost one, we won one.”
Rangers of course famously defeated Keane’s Celtic in his first Old Firm match thanks to an injury time winner from Maurice Edu.
He admitted the team were already “12 or 14 points behind” when he joined but remains pleased with his personal contribution during that period.
Keane also praised his coaching partnership with assistant Stephen Glass, noting that Glass’s recent experience managing in Scotland has been useful in preparing for Rangers.
Keane said: “He only came over six months ago, so he still has fresh eyes on Scottish football.
“It’s good to have someone who understands the intensity there.
“He complements me - he’s a bit calmer than I am at times!
“But he’s very good at what he does.”
Keane described their working relationship as a strong fit, both on and off the pitch.
Asked whether he would consider managing a club like Celtic or another major side in the future, Keane gave a measured but open response.
He said: “You can never say never in football. But I’m very happy here.
“I don’t think too far ahead - if you take your eye off the ball, you start losing games and then you lose your job.”
He again emphasised his admiration for Ferencvárosi: “It’s a fantastic club. The stadium, the training ground, the fans amazing.
“They’re like Celtic fans in how loud and passionate they are.”