Celtic manager Wilfried Nancy has insisted he remains “together with the board” and believes the team can bounce back after a disappointing 3-1 loss to Rangers in the latest Old Firm derby. The defeat marked Celtic’s sixth loss in eight games, leaving the Hoops in a challenging position in the Scottish Premiership 2025-26 season.

First Half Shows Promise, Second Half Brings Collapse

Nancy praised his team for an “outstanding” first-half performance, where Yang Hyun-Jun opened the scoring and Celtic created several opportunities to extend their lead. However, the second half told a different story as Rangers fought back with a double from Youssef Chermiti and a third goal from Mikey Moore, exploiting defensive lapses from the home side.

Following the defeat, Celtic now sit six points behind Hearts, who lead the Scottish Premiership, while Rangers are level on points with second-placed Celtic, intensifying the pressure on Nancy and his squad.

Nancy Responds to Fan Protests

In the aftermath of the derby, Celtic fans staged a protest outside Parkhead directed at the club’s board. Despite this, Nancy emphasized that the issues were not tactical or player-related but rather moments that went against the team:

“It was disappointing because we deserved more today, but again we needed more goals. In the second half, we conceded three goals from throw-ins. It’s difficult to accept, but it’s reality. This is not about the players or the tactics, this is about moments. We are really close, there are many things that can turn around. I really believe we can turn things around. We are together with the board.”

Expert Analysis: Defensive Problems Highlighted

Former Scotland midfielder Michael Stewart described Nancy’s position as “untenable,” highlighting a disconnect between the manager and the team. Stewart commented:

“It is not something that can continue and it should not have happened. Celtic are in an absolute state.”

Other pundits echoed concerns about Celtic’s defensive issues. Former goalkeeper Pat Bonner said the problems were not at the top of the pitch but with defensive shape and quality. Billy Dodds and Chris Sutton criticized the team for capitulating under pressure and failing to defend properly, despite scoring opportunities.

Fan Reaction: Calls for Change

Celtic fans expressed frustration on social media and outside the stadium. Key sentiments included:

• Pete: “First 45 minutes looked great, post half-time we looked like amateurs. Nancy has one way of playing and can’t react to opposing teams adapting. Get him out now!”
• Iain: “Celtic cannot play to Nancy’s system. The players aren’t suddenly bad; it’s the tactics that fail.”
• James: “The board are to blame. Nancy is a scapegoat. The squad isn’t fit for a 3-4-3 system, key players are out, and a different manager should have been given a chance.”
• Andy: “Nancy has to go. No progress, no style, poor results. Beaten by one of the weakest Rangers sides in decades. It’s time for a change.”

The ongoing criticism highlights a turbulent period for Celtic fans and management, particularly following a string of disappointing results that threaten the team’s title ambitions.

Looking Forward

As Celtic navigate the second half of the season, all eyes will be on Wilfried Nancy to see whether he can turn the team’s fortunes around. Defensive improvements, tactical flexibility, and key player returns will be crucial if Celtic are to compete for the Scottish Premiership title and restore confidence among their supporters.