Craig Bellamy’s name keeps getting mentioned with the Celtic job, but a new update from BBC Sport Wales suggests it’s not as close as some might think.
The Wales boss has drawn attention during his time in charge of the national side, with his attacking approach catching the eye of clubs. That has led to his name appearing in discussions around Celtic’s next appointment as the club look ahead to the summer.
However, the BBC report makes clear that while interest is expected, Bellamy is not actively looking to move on at this stage. Despite earlier suggestions that he may view international management as a short-term step, his stance appears to have shifted.
There is now a longer-term focus in place, with Bellamy targeting Euro 2028, a tournament Wales will co-host. That has become a central part of his thinking as he settles into the role.
The report also notes that Bellamy has previously played down links to Celtic, even as speculation around his future grows. That leaves the situation open, but not advanced.
There are football reasons why his name is being mentioned. Bellamy has his Wales side playing on the front foot, pressing high and getting bodies forward. At times it’s worked well, but it has also left them open.
That has been part of the discussion around their qualifying campaign. They’ve created chances and taken games to teams, but they’ve also been caught at key moments.
Wales’ World Cup hopes came to an end in Cardiff after a 1-1 draw with Bosnia and Herzegovina, with Bellamy’s side losing 4-2 on penalties. They had led through Dan James and were in control for long spells, but a late equaliser forced extra time before the shootout defeat.
The squad has played a part in that as well. Injuries to experienced players left gaps, and the level dipped as the campaign went on. That has shaped how Bellamy’s work has been judged so far.
As for Celtic, this feels more like background noise than anything concrete. The club will look at their options in the coming months, but there’s nothing to suggest Bellamy is close to taking the job.
There may be interest down the line, but for now his focus is still on Wales.
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