Robbie Keane has landed a shock managerial job with Maccabi Tel Aviv.
The former Celtic star has penned a two-year deal to take on the head coach role and can't wait to get preparations underway for the campaign ahead. The competitive action comes around in a matter of weeks with the Toto Cup clash with Hapoel Be'er Sheva his first game in the dugout on July 20 before Europa Conference League matches.
His side enter the competition at the second qualifying stage and face FC Petrocub as they bid to reach the group stages. They enter in the same round as Scottish Premiership outfit Hibs and will need to safely navigate THREE two-legged ties to reach the tournament proper. His first league game comes at the end of August against FC Ashdod.
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Keane told the official website: “I am delighted to take on this challenge at Maccabi.
"My team and I look forward to beginning work and we have confidence in our ability to do what is necessary to prepare the team for the coming season.”
Maccabi’s owner, Mitch Goldhar, added: “Robbie brings the mentality, character, energy and focus of a winner, traits he exhibited everywhere he played.
"These characteristics now combined with ambitions to succeed as a coach are aligned with our objectives at Maccabi.”
