Neil Lennon confirmed as Rapid Bucharest boss as Celtic hero makes comparison with Hoops

Neil Lennon has been confirmed as the new manager of Romanian giants Rapid Bucharest.

The Celtic hero emerged as a leading candidate to take over at Rapid in recent weeks and when quizzed on it while on punditry duties, admitted he was in talks with a club. Those talks were positive and the 52-year-old has been unveiled as their new boss on a contract until 2026. It marks a return to management for the first time since leaving Cypriots Omonia Nicosia 2022.

Lennon told his new club's website: "In the beginning, I spoke with Mr. Sucu and Daniel Sandu, I had extensive discussions with them. Then we met again a few weeks ago and I was very impressed with the project they presented to me.

"I was very impressed by Mr. Sucu, he is a very strong, very intelligent man, a man with principles. It was impressive to me. Then, talking to Daniel as well, it was a simple decision for me. I am very happy to be here, I know that Rapid is a very important name in the history of Romanian football. It's an opportunity for me.

"I hope to create a strong connection between myself and the fans, but that comes with getting positive results and performing. It is my responsibility. I know they are very passionate supporters who love the club. They are similar to Celtic fans. I want us to perform, that's my main goal. I hope to meet the supporters soon and I will do everything possible to perform with Rapid."

The move to Romania rules him out of a return to Hibs after links to that vacancy while he was also previously mentioned for Aberdeen before they went with Jimmy Thelin.