Celtic manager Wilfried Nancy has defiantly stated he does not fear for his job, even as his position grows increasingly precarious following a damaging defeat to arch-rivals Rangers at Celtic Park. The loss, which saw the hosts capitulate in the second half, has intensified pressure on the Frenchman and sparked visible anger from the club's supporters.
Second-Half Collapse Seals Nancy's Fate
The Scottish Premiership clash took a dramatic turn after the interval. Celtic had led at half-time, but a stunning second-half performance from Rangers saw them score three times to secure a vital victory. The result means Rangers have now drawn level on points with the defending champions at the top of the table.
This defeat marks a sixth loss in just eight games for Nancy since his appointment from MLS side Columbus Crew in December. The dire run of form has seen patience wear thin, with hundreds of Celtic fans gathering outside the stadium after the final whistle to protest against both the manager and the club's board.
Defiant Manager Clings to Positive Signs
Despite the mounting crisis, Wilfried Nancy struck a bullish tone in his post-match comments. The 48-year-old insisted his focus remains on fixing fine details rather than worrying about his future. "I don't think about it," Nancy said when questioned about the possibility of the sack. "I think about finding ways to help my team to be good on details."
Nancy pointed to periods of the game where his team performed well as evidence that a turnaround is imminent. "The level we had at certain moments was really, really, really high," he claimed. "That's why I said that we are really close to things turning around. But for the moment: details, details, details."
Fan Fury and Potential Successor
The discontent among the Celtic faithful was palpable at full time. Supporters directed their fury towards the dugout and the directors' box, highlighting the severe disconnect following the latest derby defeat.
Should the board decide to act, a likely candidate to replace Nancy on an interim basis would be Martin O'Neill. The former Celtic manager enjoyed a successful caretaker spell at the club before Nancy's arrival and is understood to be held in high regard by the hierarchy.
Meanwhile, Rangers manager Danny Röhl played down talk of a title charge despite the significance of the win. "Step by step, then we can really build up something here," Röhl stated. "The belief in the group is outstanding." For Celtic and Wilfried Nancy, the steps required are now urgent, with the manager's belief being tested like never before.
