Jimenez fancies Celtic job

Former Sevilla boss Manolo Jimenez has revealed he would “love” to manage Celtic.

The 46-year-old, who masterminded two Champions League victories over Rangers this season, has been out of work since being sacked last month.

He told the Scottish Sun: “I’d love to coach Celtic because they are the Real Madrid or Barcelona of Scotland with the biggest support.

“I was manager of the Sevilla B team when Celtic fans invaded Seville for the UEFA Cup final against Porto. Seville welcomed the Celtic fans and they will always be remembered.

“Jock Wallace was my manager at Sevilla when I played there alongside Ted McMinn. And, of course, I was manager of Sevilla when we beat Rangers in the Champions League.

“I’ve also been learning English for the last three months – an hour a day - and my teacher is actually a Scottish man called Ally.

“It’s funny how I’ve a few Scottish connections. Maybe God is telling me I will be the next Celtic manager, which is something I would love.”

He added: “When I was a player for Sevilla, we came to Scotland for pre-season and Jock Wallace and Ted McMinn took us to an Old Firm game.

“I remember the game having an electrifying atmosphere, it was an amazing experience. I would love to have that kind of experience as coach of Celtic.”

Former Spain international Jimenez took charge of Sevilla in 2007, leading them to fifth and third in the Primera Liga, and the last 16 of the Champions League in 2008 as well as this season.