Martin O'Neill is concentrating on stabilizing Celtic and preparing the team to defend their Scottish Premiership title while signing players who will meet the expectations of his eventual successor.
The 74-year-old Northern Irish manager was appointed permanently after leading Celtic to a league and cup double during a turbulent season as caretaker manager.
>>> Randy Orton and Kevin Owens Poised for WWE Return Ahead of SummerSlam 2026
O'Neill told BBC Radio 4, "I am obviously not getting any younger. This is not a long-term project for me.
I am not really Celtic's future for the next number of years. That's absolutely certain."
He acknowledged his responsibility continues "until we stabilize things again and maybe try to improve the team."
When asked about involvement in selecting his successor, O'Neill said, "I don't know anything about that.
Let me try to win some football matches, otherwise I'll not be at the football club at all."
>>> Man Charged with Sexual Assault of Mounted Police Officer in West Midlands
The team will start their title defense at home against Dundee.
O'Neill admitted it will "be exceptionally difficult" to improve on last season's finish due to other clubs strengthening their squads.
So far this summer, Celtic have signed two players: Danish striker Kasper Hogh for a club record fee and Colombian forward Camilo Duran.
O'Neill expressed hope that the new signings are players the next manager will find valuable.
He added, "Some of the players we've brought in I think are going to do that.
>>> Phil Foden Signs New Manchester City Deal, Eyes Fresh Start Under Maresca
A manager coming in, let's say next season, doesn't want to find out that four or five players are on three-year deals and they are not to his requirement."
