Martin O’Neill’s return to Celtic has brought familiarity, but not in the way many expected.
There is a natural instinct to view this as a continuation of what came before in O’Neill’s first spell at Celtic in 2000, given his history at the club.
However, those working closest to him now are already pointing towards a clear difference in how he operates on a daily basis.
And one of Celtic’s coaching staff, who was an academy player during O’Neill’s first tenure explains how the Hoops legend has mellowed over the years.
Michael McGovern is one of the few figures able to offer that comparison, having worked under him during his first spell before now part of the coaching setup at Celtic again.
McGovern said, “He was the first team manager when I was in and around the youth team in reserves.
“Martin is a joy to work with. He’s mellowed compared to what he was in his first spell, definitely and he’s just a brilliant character.”
Has O’Neill been soft in his approach since returning to Celtic?
Chris Sutton thinks so!
Martin O’Neill’s Celtic intensity defined his first spell
That description stands in contrast to how O’Neill was viewed during his original time in charge, when his presence set the tone inside the dressing room.
Former players have made it clear that some Celtic players were scared of him, a reflection of the standards and authority he imposed.
It was an approach built on control and intensity, where expectations were enforced through a strong personality and clear hierarchy.
That environment delivered success, but it also defined O’Neill as a demanding and uncompromising figure throughout his first spell at Celtic.
Celtic now seeing a calmer and more measured Martin O’Neill
The version of O’Neill now in place at Celtic appears to operate with a different tone, one built more on balance than intensity.
There is evidence of a more softly-softly approach, alongside a greater focus on man-management and delegation within the coaching structure.
McGovern’s assessment reinforces that shift, pointing to a manager who still carries authority but no longer relies on the same edge that once made him intimidating.
That change does not remove O’Neill’s influence, but it does alter how it is delivered across the squad and staff on a daily basis.
Celtic are now being led by the same figure, but the tone and method behind that leadership are clearly not the same as before.
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