Glasgow | Celtic fans discuss manager future after derby defeat

Celtic 1 - 3 Rangers

A dreadful second-half costs Celtic on derby day

Author | Sean M

Stadium | Celtic Park

As he trudged slowly up the Celtic Park tunnel at full time, it was difficult not to feel a flicker of sympathy for Wilfried Nancy, a manager worn down by a sixth defeat in eight matches, looking over-promoted and out of his depth.

A first half that briefly hinted at something more encouraging gave way, once again, to a second-half collapse. Celtic had Rangers under pressure at the interval, yet there was always the sense that a single goal would not suffice. A second felt necessary to assert control and perhaps a third to settle matters altogether. Such is the fragility that now defines this side. One goal is never enough.

Best fan comments

Paul: I have supported Celtic all my life, but never before have I found myself hoping for a Rangers victory in this fixture. If this result does not accelerate Wilfried Nancy’s exit, then the rest of the season looks bleak.

Craig: This squad is deeply flawed. It lacks the quality of Alistair Johnston, Cameron Carter Vickers, Jota, a proper defensive midfielder, and a reliable goalscorer. Those shortcomings are not Nancy’s doing. Responsibility lies with a sporting director who is clearly out of his depth and never had the experience required for a club of Celtic’s stature. Too many of the players recruited are simply not good enough.

Some interesting discussion from Celtic fans following derby day defeat. youtu.be/j_-wAIuBMes?...

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Dave: Nancy has to go. Watching Celtic has become embarrassing and there is a sense he is merely marking time.

Desmond: Nancy deserves little sympathy as he will leave with a handsome pay-off. The blame rests with football director Paul Tisdale and chief executive Michael Nicholson. Unless they are removed, this situation will repeat itself.

Marcus: I will not return to Celtic Park while Nancy remains in charge. Over the past 12 months the board has displayed repeated arrogance through one poor decision after another. Supporters are being treated with contempt, as if they are merely mugs who will keep spending regardless. It feels as though this board, along with Dermot Desmond, have reached the end of the road, with the relationship between club and supporters now toxic. This may become a long and damaging separation. From a supporter’s point of view, it comes down to the failure to replace Nicolas Kuhn or Kyogo Furuhashi in time for crucial Champions League qualifiers. It is deeply saddening and has drained the joy from following the club. Why they did not stick with Martin O’Neill remains baffling.

Jonny: There is a complete lack of defensive organisation and a fear of putting the ball in the net. Very few players look worthy of representing Celtic, and some appear incapable of playing football at all.