Martin O’Neill was in good spirits after Celtic’s 4–0 win over Kilmarnock, mixing humour and honesty in a way that reminded everyone why he’s still loved at Parkhead. The result rounded off a hectic couple of weeks for the Irishman, who’s brought calm and belief back to the side since stepping in.
He was quick to praise his players for their efforts, pointing to the early goal, Tierney’s strike, and Maeda’s work rate. But when the talk turned to his own future, O’Neill didn’t shy away. His answers were straightforward and genuine, showing both humility and his deep connection to the club.
This wasn’t a man campaigning to stay on. It was someone grateful for the chance to manage Celtic again and realistic about what might happen next. He spoke with perspective, aware that his time in charge might be brief but still meaningful.
Whatever comes after the international break, O’Neill’s interviews showed how much this spell means to him, and how quickly he’s brought back the warmth and spirit that fans associate with his first spell in charge.
He said: (BBC Sport), “If the board make a decision in the next two weeks for a new manager, well, I’ve had the time of my life.
“I genuinely don’t know what’s going to happen. It is a fortnight, a fortnight in my life seems a really long time.
“I’m going to just take maybe a couple of days myself, reflect on the fortnight that I’ve had… maybe keep the heart rate down a little bit.
“Why don’t you just give me a phone call on Wednesday after I come out of that darkened room, all right?”
O’Neill spoke straight from the heart, no act, no fuss. His “time of my life” comment said it all. Managing Celtic again clearly means a lot to him, and you could hear the pride in his voice.
He also admitted it’s been a hectic few weeks. His joke about keeping his heart rate down was said with a grin, but there was truth behind it, the last fortnight has been full-on and draining.
Then came that trademark humour. His line about the “darkened room” was pure O’Neill, ending a whirlwind spell with a laugh.
Whatever comes next, his words showed exactly why Celtic fans hold him in such affection, honest, funny, and full of class.
