Wilfried Nancy has been confirmed as the new Celtic manager, signing a two-and-a-half-year contract and promising to bring “exciting, attacking, winning football” to Parkhead.

The 48-year-old Frenchman will take charge on Thursday, replacing interim manager Martin O’Neill, who guided Celtic to a 100% domestic record during his brief spell in charge. Nancy’s first match in charge will be a top-of-the-table Scottish Premiership clash with Hearts on Sunday, followed by the Europa League visit of Roma and the League Cup final against St Mirren.

Nancy’s Vision for Celtic

Speaking after his appointment, Nancy said:
“Celtic is one of the world’s proper football clubs, with real atmosphere, heart, and soul. I know the history and values of Celtic, and I know what is expected of me. My No.1 aim is simple: to give our fans a strong, exciting, attacking, winning football team they can be proud of.”

He also paid tribute to his predecessors:
“I want to thank Martin O’Neill and Shaun Maloney for all they have done in recent weeks. They have my total respect and gratitude, and I hope to meet them soon to thank them personally.”

Nancy’s Coaching Background

Nancy began his managerial career in Canada after playing spells in France. He took over CF Montreal in 2021 following Thierry Henry’s departure, leading the team to the Canadian Championship the same year.

In 2022, he moved to Columbus Crew, guiding them to the MLS Cup in 2023 and the Leagues Cup in 2024. He was also named MLS Coach of the Year. This summer, however, Crew finished seventh in the Eastern Conference and 12th overall.

Over his North American career, Nancy has overseen 215 games, but Celtic marks his first managerial role in Europe.

Celtic Hierarchy Responds

Chairman Peter Lawwell:
“Wilfried has a record of playing the kind of football our supporters love. We thank Martin O’Neill, Shaun Maloney, and the backroom staff for stabilising the team and restoring confidence.”

Chief Executive Michael Nicholson:
“Wilfried was our number one candidate from the start. We will support him fully as he takes on the challenges ahead, aiming to deliver the success our supporters deserve.”

Principal Shareholder Dermot Desmond:
“Wilfried is a talented manager who understands the demands at Celtic. He combines humility with his own ideas and vision, and I am confident he will do well.”

Fans React

Celtic supporters expressed gratitude for O’Neill and cautious optimism about Nancy:

• Paul: “Big thank you to Martin O’Neill. He’s a legend. Wilfried Nancy has big shoes to fill, and hopefully seeks Martin’s advice to guide the club forward.”
• Catherine: “I’ll be sad to see O’Neill’s last game. The new manager has big shoes to fill.”
• Joss: “Managing in Glasgow is not for the faint-hearted. Time will tell if Nancy can handle the madness.”

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Key Takeaways

• Wilfried Nancy officially becomes Celtic manager, succeeding Martin O’Neill.
• First matches include a Premiership clash with Hearts, Europa League fixture against Roma, and League Cup final with St Mirren.
• Nancy brings experience from MLS, including titles with CF Montreal and Columbus Crew.
• Celtic’s hierarchy and fans express gratitude for O’Neill while welcoming Nancy’s attacking vision.