Story perspectives

67 Celtic groups protest Robbie Keane appointment over Gaza ties

6/5/2026

Summary

Story summary

Celtic faces strong opposition from fan groups to the possible hiring of former Republic of Ireland striker Robbie Keane as manager.
Sixty-seven Celtic supporters’ organisations signed a joint letter on X condemning Keane’s former role as manager of Israeli club Maccabi Tel Aviv during the Gaza conflict.
Graffiti, banners and Palestinian flags have appeared outside Celtic Park as fans protest the appointment.

History

Historical Context

The backlash against Robbie Keane’s possible Celtic appointment echoes the 2014 Gaza war protests, when more than 1,000 people gathered outside Maccabi Tel Aviv’s London training ground and the UN recorded about 2,200 Palestinian deaths. Similar anti-Israeli football boycotts resurfaced in 2024 Amsterdam, where Ajax supporters attacked a pro-Palestinian protester, showing how Middle-East conflicts repeatedly shape European club hiring and fan activism.

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Story summary

Celtic faces strong opposition from fan groups to the possible hiring of former Republic of Ireland striker Robbie Keane as manager.
Sixty-seven Celtic supporters’ organisations signed a joint letter on X condemning Keane’s former role as manager of Israeli club Maccabi Tel Aviv during the Gaza conflict.
Graffiti, banners and Palestinian flags have appeared outside Celtic Park as fans protest the appointment.

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