Shaun Maloney has officially returned to Celtic, taking on the role of Professional Player Pathway Manager in a move that strengthens the club’s focus on youth development.
The appointment was confirmed by the club on Wednesday afternoon, with Maloney stepping into the position vacated by Darren O’Dea, who left earlier this summer to join Swansea City as assistant manager.
Celtic Football Club is delighted to announce that Shaun Maloney has been appointed as the club’s new Professional Player Pathway Manager, with the aim of developing the progression of players at the club.
More info below ⤵️#CelticFC🍀
— Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) June 25, 2025
Maloney, 41, brings a wealth of experience both from his playing days and his time in coaching. After hanging up his boots, he initially began his coaching journey with Celtic’s development squad before moving on to a role with the Belgium national team under Roberto Martinez. He also had managerial stints at Hibernian and Wigan Athletic, most recently leaving the latter in March.
Celtic’s statement outlined Maloney’s responsibilities: bridging the gap between the Academy and the first team, ensuring promising talents are given the right opportunities, including well-managed loan moves to gain valuable experience.
Maloney expressed his pride at returning:“It is a huge honour to be given this opportunity to return to Celtic, in a role which I am really passionate about. My aim will be to work really closely between our Academy and the First Team and create the very best opportunities for success.”
Brendan Rodgers also welcomed the move on the club’s website: “He is someone I believe will make a great contribution to the club in this area. He is an intelligent guy who knows what it takes to be a successful Celtic player.”
One of the clubs that Celtic could be looking to work closely with is Queens Park. Reports in recent weeks and months suggest that the two sides are looking to strike a deal which will see some of Celtic’s top prospects head to the Championship side on loan.
Young players from Scotland would be able to move freely between the two clubs, if a deal is struck.
