Martin O'Neill Recovering After Small Procedure at Celtic

Martin O'Neill remains in hospital after what Celtic described as “a small procedure”, with the club expecting their manager to be discharged within the next 48 hours.

The 74-year-old, who was confirmed as permanent boss in the summer after steering Celtic to a Premiership and Scottish Cup double last season, is understood to be recovering well. No details of the procedure have been made public, with the club stressing O’Neill’s right to privacy.

He was on the touchline as recently as Monday, guiding Celtic to a 1-0 win over Dundee at Parkhead in the opening match of their league title defence. Now, as the champions prepare for Sunday’s trip to Kilmarnock, attention briefly shifts from tactics and team selection to the health of the man leading the new era.

“In response to speculation, we can confirm that Martin O'Neill has undergone a small procedure in hospital,” the club said. “We would envisage Martin being released from hospital in the next day or two and on behalf of Martin, we would like to thank supporters for their kind wishes. We would ask that the privacy of Martin and his family is respected.”

For now, Celtic’s message is clear: their manager is expected back quickly, the supporters’ goodwill has been noted, and the club intends to protect his and his family’s space while he recovers. The next time Celtic walk out, all eyes will be on whether O’Neill is there to lead them again from the dugout.