Ex-Aberdeen Boss Stephen Glass Appointed as No. 2 to Former Celtic Star Robbie Keane at Ferencváros…
In a notable coaching development within European football, Stephen Glass, the former manager of Aberdeen FC, has officially joined Ferencváros TC as the assistant coach to Robbie Keane, the former Celtic and Republic of Ireland star. The move marks a reunion of two men with strong ties to British and Irish football, now joining forces at Hungary’s most successful club.
A Strategic Appointment
Glass’s appointment as Keane’s No. 2 is seen as a strategic effort to bolster the backroom strength of a Ferencváros side aiming to extend its domestic dominance and achieve greater success in European competition. Robbie Keane took over the managerial role at Ferencváros in early 2025 and has already guided the club to another Nemzeti Bajnokság I (NB I) title — their seventh consecutive league crown.
Bringing in a coach like Glass, with his blend of managerial and player development experience, is expected to strengthen Ferencváros tactically and structurally as they prepare for the UEFA Champions League qualifying rounds.
Glass’s Managerial Background
Stephen Glass, 48, enjoyed a solid career as a midfielder, with stints at clubs like Newcastle United, Aberdeen, and Hibernian. His managerial journey began in the United States, where he worked within the Atlanta United system, serving as interim head coach of the senior team and leading their USL side.
In March 2021, Glass returned to Scotland to manage Aberdeen, but his tenure lasted less than a year, ending in February 2022 after a series of underwhelming results. Since then, he has been linked to several backroom and academy roles before now returning to front-line European football under Keane’s stewardship.
A New Era at Ferencváros
Robbie Keane, known for his legendary goal-scoring record with the Republic of Ireland and notable club stints at Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool, LA Galaxy, and Celtic, began his managerial career at Ferencváros in a bold move that surprised many observers. Since then, he has revitalized the squad with exciting attacking football and astute signings, including international talents like Callum O’Dowda, Daniel Arzani, and Jonathan Levi.
Keane and Glass will now work together to shape a competitive Ferencváros side capable of going deep into European competitions — something that has eluded the club despite domestic success.
Tactical Insights and Youth Development
Glass is widely respected for his ability to develop young players and instill tactical discipline — qualities that Keane, still relatively new to full-time management, may find invaluable. The duo’s collaboration could bring a fresh dynamic to Hungarian football, combining Keane’s natural leadership and forward-thinking style with Glass’s structured approach and tactical knowledge.
Eyes on Europe
With Ferencváros again entering the UEFA Champions League qualification rounds, the expectations are high. The club is keen not only to dominate domestically but to make meaningful progress in Europe, something that has been a consistent goal over the past decade. The Keane–Glass partnership appears well-positioned to guide the team toward that ambition.
Conclusion
Stephen Glass’s arrival at Ferencváros is more than a simple coaching hire — it represents a new phase in the club’s evolution, underlining their ambition and Keane’s commitment to surrounding himself with experienced professionals. For Glass, it’s a chance to rebuild his reputation at a high-profile European club. For Ferencváros fans, it signals that their club is thinking beyond Hungary and aiming for continental relevance.
