Swansea City confirmed the appointment of Darren O’Dea as their new assistant head coach, with the former Celtic defender departing his role as Pathways Manager at Parkhead to take up the position in Wales.
Swansea City is delighted to confirm the appointment of Darren O’Dea as the club’s assistant head coach, and that Richard Stearman will continue as first-team coach 🦢
👉 https://t.co/lYgF6Aiv3Q pic.twitter.com/Z8GDuoa3F6
— Swansea City AFC (@SwansOfficial) June 13, 2025
Both clubs announced the deal on Friday afternoon.
O’Dea, who made 70 appearances for the Hoops, had been heavily involved in developing the route from the B team and academy into the Celtic first team. He leaves a significant post within the club’s structure at a time when youth development remains a major focus.
In his first interview since making the switch, O’Dea cited the influence of Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers as a key factor in his decision. The pair spoke about Swansea’s footballing identity and the expectation from supporters to see more than just results on the pitch.
He told the club’s website:
“This club is similar to Celtic in that it has a real identity; it is not just enough to come in here and just win, there needs to be more.
“There needs to be a product on the pitch that the fans relate to.
“Speaking to Brendan, who has been brilliant in all this, he talked about the fanbase having a big understanding of their football. He could not have spoken more highly of the club and the city, and the DNA of the club.
“That is a real big driver in me wanting to come here, it’s really important to me.”
Brendan Rodgers was very keen for O’Dea to take the role, at a club that he formerly managed, so he knows it really well.
It’s a good move from the former B Team manager. He’s highly rated from within Celtic, and getting some experience at a senior level, will only help him progress his career. Hopefully, he does really well with Swansea.
Maybe, one day, he’ll end up back at Celtic.
