Shaun Maloney has been confirmed as Darren O’Dea’s replacement for the Professional Player Pathway Manager role at Celtic.
Maloney enjoyed two trophy-laden spells at Celtic and was, of course, part of the Martin O’Neill squad that reached the 2003 UEFA Cup final in Seville.
The former Celtic winger was more recently Belgium’s assistant manager under Roberto Martinez where he coached world superstars like Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku and Youri Tielemans at Euro 2020.
Now, the Hoops have officially announced Maloney has returned to the club to replace Darren O’Dea, who recently left the club for Swansea City.
Maloney appointed Celtic’s Professional Player Pathway Manager
Speaking to the official Celtic website, Maloney said: “It is a huge honour to be given this opportunity to return to Celtic, in a role which I am really passionate about.
“My aim will be to work really closely between our Academy and the First Team and create the very best opportunities for success, which will ultimately be represented by more and more players reaching our first team environment.
“I have been fortunate enough to follow this same pathway and I am now excited about ensuring many more young players can take this same journey.”
Some Celtic fans unhappy with Maloney appointment
Celtic fans will always be fond of Maloney after all he achieved at the club and whilst many are not happy with the news of his return, it’s got nothing to do with his ability as a coach.
@Pilgrim_73 believes the club are lacking vision and said, “Our lack of imagination is embarrassing.”
@WillieMaleyCSC isn’t too happy either and said, “The old pals act. Does my nut in sometimes.”
So it appears that the old ‘jobs for the boys’ cynicism is rumbling through some Celtic fans. However, there are others who are happy.
Other Celtic fans happy with Maloney’s return to Parkhead
Maloney has some good coaching experience, and the fact he came through the Celtic Academy too should make him an ideal appointment.
That’s the view of these Hoops supporters, at least.
@thEnd0fTheStorm simply said, “Good move.” And that sentiment was equalled by @mckenna67 as he said, “Brilliant move.”
And finally, @_MPato90 believes this is a great move by Celtic and said, “As much as I agree certain coaches at the club are there because of either who their parents are or what they done at the club as a player, but Shaun Maloney is a highly regarded coach throughout Europe and it’s the perfect fit for him.
“We’ve been crying out for someone like this.”
This does seem like a good move by Celtic and Maloney can bring a lot of experience and guidance to the Hoops youngsters.
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