Former Celtic boss Neil Lennon is on the lookout for a new challenge as he bids to open the next chapter of his colourful managerial career.
The 52-year-old won ten trophies during his two separate spells in the Parkhead dugout; however, he is now keen to take the next step after leaving Omonia Nicosia in 2022.
Lennon was in the running for the vacant Republic of Ireland position, though he was informed last month that he wouldn’t be the man to replace Stephen Kenny in charge of the Boys in Green.
Featuring as a pundit for various outlets, the Lurgan-born man is never far away from matchday coverage involving Celtic, offering a mixture of intriguing standpoints taken from his experience in charge of the Bhoys.
Possessing a vast knowledge of what it is like to be in the heat of a title race, Lennon believes that his old side need to show they retain the ‘bottle’ required to pip Rangers to the Scottish Premiership crown this term under Brendan Rodgers.
He stated: “It does come down to bottle, yes. It is all about your mentality, performance, fitness levels and staying on top of your game. I think it’s really exciting. I would love to be involved in it.”
In a surprising turn of events, he has now signalled his intention to return to the Scottish game for the first time since 2021.
Former Celtic boss Neil Lennon is keen to take over at Aberdeen
Following a period out of management, Lennon has taken the unexpected step of declaring interest in taking over at Aberdeen amid their struggles under Neil Warnock.
Speaking at a media event organised by Viaplay ahead of this weekend’s Scottish Cup ties, he also addressed false perceptions levelled at his managerial ability.
Lennon stated [Press and Journal]: “Timing is important, and the Aberdeen job is something that I would be very much interested in, no question. I think there is great potential at Aberdeen.”
He then added: “I feel, at 52, my best years are in front of me as a football manager and a coach in terms of experience, my achievements in the game and what I have done and learned as a manager.
“I do think there is a perception of me that is wrong. I have achieved a lot – titles, trebles and in the Champions League.
“I even went abroad and won a trophy and got that team into the Europa League. I have won the Scottish Cup four times as a player and a manager. I have got real experience.
“I got the Celtic job when I was very young. That was, like, 15 years ago, and people think I am getting on a bit, but I still have plenty of energy.”
There will be plenty of Celtic fans with mixed emotions towards Lennon due to how his second tenure at Parkhead ended; nonetheless, he seems determined to prove the doubters wrong in his next post.
Either way, there would be a sense of intrigue if he were to complete a dramatic return to Scottish football in the near future.
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