The Australian revealed the Scottish champions wanted him to extend his stay in Glasgow but the “new opportunity” presented to him was one he wanted to explore after two seasons at Celtic Park. The club confirmed “the process of appointing” his replacement is “already underway” but told fans that while they want to appoint a manager as soon as possible the “priority will be to appoint the best candidate to take the club forward”.
Postecoglou leaves big shoes to fill following a hugely successful two-year spell having taken over from Neil Lennon after the club missed out on ten in a row. The 57-year-old won five trophies, including two Premiership titles and the treble this campaign, during his time, while creating a style of play which excited fans and had huge success in the transfer market.
The new Celtic boss is set to encounter a rejuvenated Rangers who finished seven points behind in the league and lost to their rivals in the League Cup final and Scottish Cup semi-final. Michael Beale has already started his promised summer rebuild, while Postecoglou revealed in the aftermath of the Scottish Cup final win that some of the champions' stars could depart. They will, however, once again start in the Champions League group stage following the Premiership win.
Speculation is well and truly underway as to who replaces Postecoglou with a number of familiar names in mentioned, while former Celtic defender Alan Stubbs noted the club are “in a very strong position now and I think there will be big names from across Europe who would be very interested”.
We look at 13 possible candidates for the job...
5. Scott Brown - 20/1
Another with strong Celtic links. A long-time club captain who made more than 600 appearances across 14 seasons winning 22 trophies. Has since gone into management and just completed his first season as a first-team boss, guiding Fleetwood Town to mid-table in League One. Photo: Ross Parker - SNS Group
6. Kevin Muscat - 20/1
Perhaps the most eyebrow-raising name on the list. The Australian was a controversial presence during his playing days, which included a spell at Rangers. Has since forged an impressive coaching CV, following in the footsteps of Ange Postecoglou with title success in Australia and Japan. Worked with the now former Celtic boss for a spell. Photo: Kenta Harada
7. John Kennedy - 9/1
A highly thought of coach at Celtic. Has been previously linked with jobs at Hibs and the current vacancy at Hearts. There has been speculation that Postecoglou is keen to take him to Spurs, something Celtic would look to stop. Photo: Craig Williamson - SNS Group
8. Graham Potter - 9/1
A far from orthodox coaching journey which led him to the Chelsea job in the Premier League. From the English lower leagues to Sweden and back to English football before getting the big job at Stamford Bridge where he was assisted by former Hamilton Accies manager Billy Reid. An impressive job everywhere he went but lasted just 31 games at Chelsea. Photo: Ryan Pierse