The Major League Soccer (MLS) is buzzing with Celtic connections that could set the stage for an epic showdown. From title-winning managers to prolific strikers, the Scottish giants’ influence is weaving a tantalizing narrative across the Atlantic—one that might just culminate in a clash with the legendary Lionel Messi.
Ronny Deila and Kenny Miller: Celtic’s Stateside Pioneers
At the heart of this Celtic invasion is Atlanta United, led by none other than Ronny Deila, the former Celtic manager who steered the Hoops to a Scottish Premiership title. Deila, now at the helm of Atlanta, has brought along another Celtic icon, Kenny Miller, as his assistant. Together, they’re injecting a dose of Glasgow grit into the MLS, a league that, while not on par with Europe’s elite, boasts its own star power and growing prestige.
Messi’s MLS Adventure and a Celtic Reunion on the Horizon?
The MLS has become a magnet for global superstars, with Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi stealing the spotlight. The Argentine maestro, now in the twilight of his illustrious career, plays under the watchful eye of club owner David Beckham. But whispers are growing louder that two Celtic heroes could soon join forces in Los Angeles, potentially setting up a blockbuster face-off with Messi’s Miami.
According to BBC Sport, Los Angeles FC is eyeing Ange Postecoglou, the former Celtic boss who recently parted ways with Tottenham Hotspur after clinching the Europa League. Postecoglou, a Treble-winner with Celtic, is reportedly a prime candidate to take over at LAFC, bringing his high-octane, attacking philosophy to the MLS.
And that’s not all. Mexican reports suggest LAFC is also targeting Giorgos Giakoumakis, the Greek striker who thrived under Postecoglou at Celtic. Currently banging in goals for CD Cruz Azul, Giakoumakis could be the missing piece in LAFC’s quest for dominance. If both men land in Los Angeles, it would mark a sensational reunion of Celtic’s former manager and star forward.
Giakoumakis’ Celtic Legacy Under Postecoglou
When Postecoglou brought Giakoumakis to Celtic from VVV-Venlo in 2021, the Greek hitman quickly became a fan favorite. Though he didn’t always secure a starting spot, his impact was undeniable. In 57 appearances under Postecoglou, Giakoumakis delivered a staggering 26 goals and 2 assists, showcasing his lethal finishing and relentless work rate. His departure left a void at Celtic Park, and fans still lament the absence of a striker with his clinical edge.
Could LAFC’s Celtic Reunion Steal Messi’s Thunder?
The prospect of Postecoglou and Giakoumakis reuniting at LAFC is enough to send MLS fans into a frenzy. Imagine the scenes: Postecoglou’s free-flowing, attacking system, powered by Giakoumakis’ goal-scoring prowess, taking on Messi’s Inter Miami in a high-stakes showdown. The last time LAFC and Inter Miami met was in the 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup, a clash that proved the MLS can deliver drama worthy of the global stage.
While the MLS may not yet rival Europe’s top leagues, the star power of Messi, combined with the potential arrival of Celtic’s dynamic duo, could elevate the league to new heights. Could Postecoglou and Giakoumakis join forces to not only dominate the MLS but also outshine the greatest player of all time? One thing’s for sure: if this Celtic reunion happens, the MLS is in for a wild ride.