Celtic manager Martin O’Neill remains in hospital after undergoing a “small procedure”, with the club issuing an official statement to reassure worried supporters.
The 74-year-old Hoops boss is expected to be released “in the next day or two” as the club ask for privacy for O’Neill and his family.
Celtic have confirmed that manager Martin O’Neill is recovering in hospital after undergoing what the club has described as a “small procedure”. The 74-year-old, who was in the dugout just days ago for Celtic’s Premiership opener against Dundee, is now receiving medical care with the club expecting him to be discharged within 48 hours.
The news comes at a crucial time for the Hoops, who are preparing for a massive Champions League play-off clash with LASK later this month. But for now, the focus is firmly on the health and wellbeing of the man who led Celtic to a stunning league and cup double last season.
THE OFFICIAL STATEMENT
Celtic released a statement on social media on Wednesday afternoon (August 5, 2026) confirming the news.
“In response to speculation, we can confirm that Martin O’Neill has undergone a small procedure in hospital.”
“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.”
The statement was brief but reassuring. No details have been provided about the nature of the procedure, and the club have made it clear they want O’Neill’s privacy respected during this time.
A MANAGER WHO HAS DONE IT ALL
O’Neill’s journey back to Celtic has been nothing short of remarkable. He signed a one-year deal in June to become permanent manager after two interim spells last season culminated in a Scottish Premiership and Scottish Cup double .
The 74-year-old first returned to Celtic in October 2025 after Brendan Rodgers’ resignation, taking over on an interim basis. He then stepped aside for Wilfried Nancy, only to return again when the Frenchman’s disastrous 33-day reign came to an end.
O’Neill’s appointment as permanent boss was met with widespread approval from the Celtic support. Former Celtic captain Paul Lambert called it a “no-brainer”, saying: “He knows the club, he knows what it is to win there. Celtic is not a development club. It’s a club that has to win and there’s nobody better to do that.”
THE REACTION FROM FANS AND PUNDITS
Celtic fans have flooded social media with messages of support for their manager. One supporter said: “Get well soon, gaffer. The team will do you proud.”
Another added: “Martin O’Neill is Celtic through and through. Wishing him speedy recovery.”
A third fan wrote: “Whatever the procedure was, we’re all behind you, Martin. Come back stronger.”
Former Celtic and Scotland striker Chris Sutton also sent his best wishes, posting on social media: “Wishing Martin O’Neill a speedy recovery. The football world is thinking of you, gaffer.”
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR CELTIC
O’Neill’s absence comes at a critical time for Celtic. The Hoops have already been dealt a series of injury blows ahead of the new season, with Jota ruled out with a serious knee injury and Benjamin Nygren sidelined with an Achilles issue.
The timing is particularly challenging given Celtic’s upcoming Champions League play-off clash with Austrian side LASK. The first leg is scheduled for August 20, and O’Neill will be hoping to be back in the dugout for that crucial European tie.
Assistant manager Steven Naismith is expected to take charge of first-team affairs in O’Neill’s absence. Naismith, who has been heavily linked with the Scotland job in recent weeks, will lead training and manage the team for the upcoming Premiership clash against Kilmarnock on Sunday.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
O’Neill’s health scare comes just weeks after he signed his permanent contract. The 74-year-old had spoken about his excitement for the season ahead, telling the press earlier this week about the club’s latest appointments and transfer business.
Despite the uncertainty over his health, the club has moved quickly to reassure supporters that the procedure was routine and that O’Neill is expected to make a full recovery.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Martin O’Neill remains in hospital after undergoing a small procedure, with Celtic confirming he is expected to be released in the next day or two. The club have asked for privacy for O’Neill and his family as he recovers.
The 74-year-old manager, who delivered a league and cup double last season, will be hoping to return to the dugout in time for Celtic’s Champions League play-off clash with LASK.
For now, the focus is on his health and recovery. The Celtic support, and the wider football world, are wishing him a speedy return.
