Celtic supporters are optimistic for the first time in recent weeks as their club is linked with one of the biggest names in management
Celtic fans haven’t had many reasons to be cheerful of late, but a report that Rafa Benitez is set to become the club’s new manager has given them hope.
Rangers’ 5-0 win over Ross County put the league leaders 23 points clear at the top of the Premiership, with Celtic’s hopes of securing 10-in-a-row looking remote.
It was a 2-0 defeat against the Staggies at Celtic Park in the Betfred Cup that led to fans protesting outside the stadium in November, and they have continued to call for Neil Lennon’s exit.
Despite intense pressure from supporters and pundits, which Monday’s press conference only served to inflame, Lennon remains in the job.
According to the Mirror, however, he will soon be replaced by former Liverpool boss Benitez.
They claim that the 60-year-old is “set to become Celtic’s new manager” and that “His sudden availability means Celtic have a world-class replacement for Lennon.”
Benitez recently left his job as manager of Chinese side Dalian Professional.
A move to Glasgow would see him begin a rivalry with his former captain Steven Gerrard, and that prospect is being savoured by these Celtic fans.
Their optimism has been tempered, however, by a tweet from Spanish football expert Guillem Balague, who on Sunday morning said: “Rafa Benitez to Celtic? There was interest in him but not an option today.
“He’s going to rest for a bit, despite offers (from Germany, also a national side…).
“By the way, about Celtic: there is a false document doing the rounds (check the phone number).”
Celtic return to league action on Wednesday night when they play host to Hamilton Accies.
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