Celtic manager Wilfried Nancy is reportedly on the verge of dismissal following a humiliating 3-1 defeat to Rangers at Parkhead. The loss, which saw Rangers come from behind to win, has left the Scottish champions languishing in the league and intensified pressure on the Frenchman, who has managed only two victories in eight matches since replacing Brendan Rodgers.
With Nancy’s position increasingly precarious, Celtic may be forced to appoint their third permanent manager of the season. Several candidates have been mooted, including former Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou, who is currently out of work after brief stints at Tottenham and Nottingham Forest. Postecoglou enjoyed immense success during his previous spell in Glasgow, winning multiple trophies.
Other potential successors include Ralph Hasenhuttl, the former Southampton manager who is also without a club after being sacked by Wolfsburg. Hasenhuttl is known for an attacking style that could help Celtic regain their dominance. Gary O'Neil, recently dismissed by Wolves, is another option; he previously stabilised Bournemouth and could provide the steadiness Celtic need.
Kieran McKenna, the Ipswich Town manager, represents a more ambitious target. However, McKenna is reportedly earning around £5 million per year and has a hefty break clause in his contract, making a move difficult. Ipswich are also keen to secure an immediate return to the Premier League, which may deter Celtic from pursuing him.
The defeat to Rangers was the latest low point in a torrid start for Nancy, who also lost the Scottish League Cup final to St Mirren. With thousands of empty seats and boos ringing out at full-time, the Celtic board may feel compelled to act quickly to salvage their season.
