Just weeks ago, the question hanging over Celtic Park was not if, but when, manager Wilfried Nancy would be shown the door. A disastrous start featuring four consecutive defeats, including a cup final loss to St Mirren, had the Frenchman's reign teetering on the brink before it had truly begun.
From the Brink to a Glimmer of Hope
The nadir came with a December 17th loss to Dundee United, where chants of ‘Nancy, get to France’ echoed around Tannadice, perfectly capturing the fans' fury. However, a crucial two wins within a week have temporarily quietened the dissent and offered Nancy a vital lifeline. There are signs his attacking philosophy is beginning to take root, with the football at times a world away from the pragmatic style of Brendan Rodgers' second spell.
Midfielder Benjamin Nygren epitomised this improvement in the narrow victory at Livingston, scoring a first-half brace—including a sublime curling effort—to take his season tally to 10. Record signing Arne Engels is also flourishing, bossing the midfield and converting a penalty in the 4-3 win. Yet, for all the promise going forward, the performance in West Lothian laid bare the systemic issues that threaten to derail any progress.
Defensive Disarray Demands January Action
The primary concern remains a leaky defence that has conceded 13 goals in six games. Livingston exposed it ruthlessly, scoring twice within eight chaotic minutes. Nancy's commitment to a back-three system is unwavering, but the current personnel are struggling to adapt.
Anthony Ralston looks particularly ill-at-ease on the right of the back three, his uncertainty glaring for Livingston's opener. On the flanks, wing-backs Yang Hyun-Jun and Luke McCowan are being targeted defensively, despite offering threat in attack. Yang was culpable for Livi's second goal but redeemed himself with a fine equaliser, highlighting his dual reality.
With Cameron Carter-Vickers out for the season, a new centre-half is an absolute priority in the January window. Specialist wing-backs and a proven striker are also desperately needed, with Johnny Kenny's confidence appearing shattered after missing key chances.
The Road Ahead for Nancy's Celtic
While the team is trending in the right direction, they are not out of the woods. Nancy's ability to recruit effectively this month will define the second half of his debut season. If he can address the glaring holes in his squad—particularly a clinical number nine and defensive reinforcements—the attacking verve he is instilling could yet form the foundation for a successful tenure. If not, the early-season doubts will return with a vengeance. For now, the Frenchman has bought himself time, but the clock is still ticking.
