This was not a happy departure. Although it was framed as a retirement, he was resentful of being forced to leave, and would not return for some years to Celtic Park. Indeed, for a period he was more likely to be seen as a guest at Ibrox. Maley had always had positive links with Rangers, and in fact the Light Blues organised a farewell dinner and presentation for him when he departed Celtic.
Eventually there was a rapproachment between Willie and Celtic, and he returned to Celtic Park, the scene of his greatest days. He was even granted a testimonial – in which he kicked off the game – with the proceeds going to charity.
By the late-1950s – and approaching his 90th year – Willie Maley moved into a care home in Langside. On 2 April 1958, his earthly journey came to an end. As a devout Catholic – he had been a daily communicant – his funeral was held in Partick, near the West End place he called home for many years.
Despite the temporary falling out which took place between Celtic and Maley, there is no denying his phenomenal position in the club’s history.
He played in the first ever game, and was involved in all of the club’s notable early events, such as first trophy, first major trophy, first Scottish Cup and first League title.
Celtic manager Willie Maley, Photo The Celtic Wiki
Willie Maley is Celtic’s longest serving manager at 43 years, a record which will surely never be beaten. He is also, based on trophies won, the Bhoys’ most successful manager, claiming 16 league titles and 14 Scottish Cups, as well as numerous other prizes.
His time in charge includes nurturing some of the most famous names in Celtic folklore: Jimmy Quinn, Patsy Gallacher, Jimmy McGrory, and so many others.
And of course, these men – and Willie himself – are remembered by generations of Celtic fans, not least because of the famous fans’ song which bears his name.
Celtic historian David Potter wrote a biography of Willie Maley in 2004. It was titled “Willie Maley: the man who made Celtic.” It seems impossible to give a more fitting or accurate description of Mr Celtic than this.
Matthew Marr
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Click on cover to order a hardback copy
Matthew’s debut Celtic book titled ‘The Bould Bhoys – Glory to their name’ was published by Celtic Star Books last year and is available to order HERE. This brilliant book is also available on Amazon Kindle for just £3.49 and includes all photo sections that appear in the hardback edition.
Matthew Marr with his debut Celtic book, Glory to their name, which tells the story of Celtic’s first ever title win. Photo The Celtic Star
Celtic in the Thirties by Celtic Historian Matt Corr is published in two volumes by Celtic Star Books. ORDER NOW WHILE STOCKS LAST!
He wasn’t guessing he just never going to give Celtic the verdict we should look into the history of this and official few others of there involvement in games involving Celtic how many close or not so close go against Celtic we all know the non penalty the rangers thought they had it was to close for var never seen anything to change the refs decision like yesterday but muir did intervene and called out the ref and linesman as inadequate