Ange Postecoglou lays down Celtic return demand that Hoops can meet

Robin Bairner

Updated: 26 Mar 2026 12:29 GMT
4 min read

Ange Postecoglou has outlined one of the major conditions that he would put on a return to Celtic – and it’s one that the Glasgow giants can meet.

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‘Big Ange’ enjoyed a hugely successful spell at Parkhead from 2021-23 before moving to Tottenham, where he spent two years, notably winning the Europa League. His career has become more complicated since then, with a short-lived spell at Nottingham Forest a “bad experience”.

Currently out of work following his time at the City Ground, Postecoglou has been mentioned as a possible candidate to fill the vacant full-time managerial role at Celtic Park, which Martin O’Neill is occupying on a temporary basis until the end of the season.

While Robbie Keane and Jens Berteh Askou are currently among the favourites, the Aussie’s name continually crops up with regards to a Parkhead return.

And Postecoglou has laid down one major condition he will demand when he eventually returns to management. The good news for Celtic is that it is one they can meet.

“I’ve figured out that, for me to do what I do, the start of pre-season is a good starting point,” he told the Glasgow Times.

“Jumping in mid-season, especially in the Premier League but in most leagues, is just probably too much of a challenge for the way I do things. That’s what I’m holding out for.”

© IMAGO - Ange Postecoglou: Burned by Nottingham Forest experience

Big Ange reveals European desire

Postecoglou is known for his all-action approach to football, with his relentless attacking style winning particular praise for the way it was carried out in Scotland.

He indicated that he wants to make a return to management in European football.

“I haven’t even scratched the surface of what I want to do over here yet, and the impact I want to make, the football I want to play,” he said.

“The fact now it’s the first time I’m coming off a bad experience – that’s just more fuel for me.

“Wherever I go in there will be plenty of scepticism – that’s brilliant, that’s what I need.

“Get the gloves, put the helmet on again on and go really hard.”

Analysis: Postecoglou to make Celtic return?

While Postecoglou is exactly the type of manager Celtic need, the Hoops will be hard-pressed to attract him back to Glasgow as a replacement for O’Neill – particularly if they fail to qualify for the Champions League.

Despite the critics, he is liable to be offered jobs in Big 5 leagues, which will offer him more of a spotlight as well as greater financial reward.

Nevertheless, Postecoglou returning to Celtic is something many fans will dream of, and it’s a prospect that his words certainly do not rule out.

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