He added that reality might set in during their opening home match at Celtic Park.
“Maybe the first league game at Celtic Park, maybe I'll think about it then, but genuinely, no I don't think it has really sunk in.”
Commitment and Champions League Ambitions
O'Neill acknowledged that the intense nature of the role initially made him hesitate about committing full-time.
“If I'd been asked about it a day after we'd done it, I don't think I would have had the energy.”
However, the desire to avoid future regrets motivated his return. “I tried to project myself a couple of months further forward.”
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Securing a spot in the Champions League group stage remains a primary objective. “Absolutely vital,” O'Neill said.
The upcoming play-off tie in August requires extensive preparation. “If we're going to do it, first of all, we're talking about trying to augment the squad.
Secondly, it's getting players prepared both physically and mentally for those games, and that becomes very, very important.”
O'Neill indicated that last season's European exit left a psychological impact on domestic performances.
“The disappointment of last season, not making it into the Champions League because of having a good run the previous year, I think that carried over to league performances.”
He concluded that the impending continental qualification fixtures carry immense significance. “Now this tie that we will be in, whoever it may be, becomes very important.”
O'Neill also intends to introduce tactical alterations, mirroring the direct, high-tempo style from his previous stint. “I think I can marry both in many aspects.
