Courtesy: The Roar
Former Socceroos manager Ange Postecoglou’s astonishing move to Celtic is almost final. Postecoglou and the Scottish footballing behemoth had “verbally negotiated personal terms” for the former to become the club’s new manager.
According to the article, Celtic is hoping Postecoglou will arrive in the UK before the start of the club’s pre-season training camp in Wales on July 5. Postecoglou, who is now in command of Yokohama F. Marinos, would have to go through a 10-day quarantine period if he completed his move to Celtic.
Celtic and Yokohama have already agreed on a compensation price for the 55-year-old, albeit the Japanese club has refused to comment on the news. In addition to finalizing arrangements with Postecoglou and Yokohama, Celtic will need UEFA clearance to appoint the Greek-born manager since he has the requisite Pro License.
If Postecoglou’s hiring as a Celtic manager is confirmed, he may hire Kevin Muscat, a former Socceroo, and Melbourne Victory coach, as his assistant. Postecoglou has previously managed Australia, Melbourne Victory, and Brisbane Roar, with the latter winning two A-League championships. In 2015, he won the Asian Cup with Australia and the J-League title with Yokohama FM.
Appointing Ange Postecoglou as Celtic manager would be a “big risk”, according to former Australia goalkeeper Mark Bosnich.
Bosnich told Sky Sports News: “He did have a fantastic time here at a club called Brisbane Roar, where he pretty much revolutionized the way football was played over here. And he’s won the title in his first foray into Asia.
“I can understand the angst from Celtic supporters because winning the title here in Australia and winning the title in Japan is not managing in the Scottish Premiership, and nor is it managing a club the size of Celtic, whose worldwide support is right up there, and they’re an absolutely massive club.
“If he does get appointed, he does deserve a chance, but it is a big risk – there’s no doubt about that.”