Pressure is reaching breaking point for Celtic manager Wilfried Nancy after a humiliating defeat to arch-rivals Rangers left his future in serious doubt.
The former Columbus Crew boss, who took over from Brendan Rodgers just a month ago, has overseen a calamitous start to his tenure at Parkhead. He has managed only two wins from his eight matches in charge, suffering six defeats.
A Humiliating Defeat at Parkhead
The low point came this Saturday in the Scottish Premiership, as Celtic surrendered a one-goal lead to be soundly beaten 3-1 by Rangers on their own turf. The match ended with thousands of empty seats and a chorus of loud boos from the remaining supporters, a clear signal of their discontent.
This followed another painful setback just weeks earlier, a loss to St Mirren in the Scottish League Cup final. With results and performances failing to improve, the Celtic board is now reportedly assessing potential replacements.
Four Contenders for the Celtic Hotseat
If Nancy is dismissed, Celtic would be seeking their third permanent manager this season. Several names are already being linked with the vacant position should it arise.
Ange Postecoglou
The most popular choice among many fans would be a sensational return for Ange Postecoglou. The Australian enjoyed tremendous success in his previous spell at Celtic before leaving for Tottenham Hotspur.
Now a free agent after a brief and unsuccessful stint at Nottingham Forest, Postecoglou would likely welcome a return to Glasgow to revive a club and fanbase in desperate need of a lift.
Ralph Hasenhuttl
The former Southampton manager is currently unattached, meaning Celtic could appoint him without paying compensation. While his recent job at Wolfsburg ended poorly, his high-energy, attacking philosophy from his Saints days could be well-suited to restoring Celtic's domestic dominance.
Gary O'Neil
O'Neil was considered for the role when Rodgers departed and remains a candidate. His work at Bournemouth was respected, though he struggled at Wolverhampton Wanderers. Celtic may see him as a steadying hand capable of closing the gap to league leaders Hearts.
Kieran McKenna
Ipswich Town's highly-rated boss Kieran McKenna represents an ambitious but expensive target. He is on a lucrative contract at Portman Road, with a significant break clause, as Ipswich push for Premier League promotion. Football-wise he could be an ideal fit, but prising him away would be a major challenge.
The coming days will be critical for Wilfried Nancy, but with the Celtic hierarchy exploring alternatives, his time at the club appears to be hanging by a thread.
