Celtic has announced that first-team coach Gavin Strachan is leaving Parkhead after six years to take on a new role with English Championship side West Bromwich Albion.
The 47-year-old, son of former Celtic and Scotland manager Gordon Strachan, worked under several bosses during his tenure in Glasgow, including Neil Lennon, Ange Postecoglou, Brendan Rodgers, and most recently Martin O’Neill.
He will now join James Morrison’s backroom staff at The Hawthorns, following Morrison’s permanent appointment as West Brom head coach after he steered the club to Championship safety as caretaker.
Strachan, who helped O’Neill secure a league and Scottish Cup double last season, is no stranger to English football, having previously served as assistant manager at Doncaster Rovers and Peterborough United before moving to Celtic in June 2020.
Celtic have yet to finalise O’Neill’s coaching setup for the upcoming campaign, though Shaun Maloney, Mark Fotheringham, and Stephen McManus are expected to sign new deals to retain their positions. Reflecting on Strachan’s exit, O’Neill said: “I’ve only really known Gavin for the last six months, but his contribution was key to our success, and I wish him all the best in his new role.”
Strachan arrives in the West Midlands alongside assistant head coach Matt Gill and coach Tony McMahon, while Damia Abella has departed the club.
West Brom boss James Morrison welcomed the additions, saying: “It’s great to have Gilly on board for the coming season—he’s a superb coach, and I enjoyed working with him last year. The players did too, and his efforts were crucial in helping us get over the line.
“I’m also delighted to add Gavin Strachan to the group. A fresh perspective from someone with Gavin’s experience will be a huge boost. He’s worked alongside top managers like Martin O’Neill, Ange Postecoglou, and Brendan Rodgers, and will undoubtedly bring new ideas.
“And I know Tony well from our time together at Middlesbrough. He’s had various roles in the game and knows me better than anyone in football. He’s someone I trust and whose opinion I’ve always valued.
“Alongside Boaz, they form what I believe is a strong team around me. They each bring different personalities, qualities, and a strong work ethic—exactly what we need.
“Finally, I’d like to thank the whole coaching team for their efforts in getting us over the line last season. That thanks extends to Damia, who was a pleasure to work with throughout his time here. I’m sure everyone will join me in wishing him the very best for whatever comes next.”
